1/ 





CAPTAIN HENRY CLAY TAYLOR 

COMMANDER OK I III BATTLESHIP [NDIANA 
•• II. fought in the g I old waj ." 



BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

AND HER PART IN THE 
SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR 



ILLUSTRATED FROM PHOTOGRAPHS AND ORIGINAL SKETCHES 
MADE DURING THE WAR-TIME. TOGETHER WITH THE ANNUAL 
REPORT OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER, WAR REPORTS. AND 
SOME GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THE INDIANA. ALSO, 
A LIST OF THE OFFICERS AND ENLISTED MEN WHO SERVED ON 
BOARD THE SHIP DURING THE MONTHS OF ACTIVE HOSTILITIES 



EDITED. BY 

WILLIAM G. 1 CASSARD, U.S.N. 

CHAPLAIN OF THE U. S. S. INDIANA 



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COMPILED AND PUBLISHED FOR 
THE INDIANA SHIP'S COMPANY 

By EVERETT B. MERO, Chief Yeoman, U.S.N. 

NEW YORK, 1898 



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COPYRIGHT, 181^8, BY 

HENRY C. TAYLOR 
All rights reserved 



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W o 



To meet the expressed wishes of officers and enlisted 
men of the United States Battleship Indiana for some per- 
manent record of the ship's doings in the war between the 
United States and Spain, 189S, this small book has been 
prepared, with the hope that it may, to some extent, answer 
that purpose. 

The illustrations are taken, for the most part, from a 
series of photographs made by Chaplain Cassard of the 
Indiana. 

These photographs have a war history of their own. Most 
of them were negatives stored in the stateroom of the 
Chaplain at the time the Spanish shell came on board and ex- 
ploded, as told in Chapter Seven. When he entered his room 
after the explosion he found his camera, film rolls, etc., mingled 
with the rest of the contents of his room in the middle of the 
floor in four inches of water. Some of the undeveloped films 
were exposed to the rays of electric light and that accounts for 
the peculiar appearance of several of the illustrations in this 
volume, although it adds interest to them. 

For the benefit of friends of the ship ashore a small 
amount of space is devoted to general information concern- 
ing the vessel. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I 

PAGE 

Events of the Year. — The Annual Report of the Commanding Officer 
of the Battleship Indiana, giving the Official Story of One Year 
in Peace and in War. (By Captain Henry C. Taylor.) . . I 



CHAPTER II 

Getting Ready for Hostilities. — A Running Story of the Indiana's 
Preparations for War, her Conduct under Fire, and a Word Pic- 
ture of Events on Board in Action. (By Chief Yeoman Everett 
B. Mero.) ........... 29 



CHAPTER III 

Memorable July Third. — The Part taken by the Indiana in the Excit- 
ing and Historical Events of that Day at Santiago. Her Eager 
Pursuit of a Supposed Spanish Battleship. The Work of Mercy 
following the Battle. Official Orders of Congratulation. The 
Return North. (By Chaplain William G. Cassard.) . . .42 



CHAPTER IV 

Extracts from the Log of the Indiana.— May 4th, 5th, nth, 12th ; June 

22d ; July 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th, 10th, nth 72 



CHAPTER V 

The Gun-fire. — Report to the Bureau of Ordnance of Ammunition 
expended in the Several Actions of the War. (By Lieutenant 
Samuel P. Comly.) 97 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER VI 



CHAPTER IX 



PAGE 



The Marine Guard. — Report to the Colonel Commandant, U. S. 
Marine Corps, telling the Story of the Indiana's Marines in 
Battle. (By Captain Littleton W. T. Waller.) . . . .105 

CHAPTER VII 

Story of the Punch Bowl.— How it Obtained its Battle Scar. Also, 
Details of the Havoc caused by the Explosion of One 8-inch Shell 
from a Spanish Mortar Battery. (By Chaplain W. G. Cassard.) in 

CHAPTER VIII 

Ship's Company and Prizes of War. — List of the Officers, Crew, and 
Marines on Board the Indiana at the Time of the Action of July 
3d, 189S, off Santiago de Cuba; also, the Prize Vessels in Whose 
( apture the Indiana was Specially Concerned. The War Vol- 
unteers. ..... 



119 



The Internal Mechanism. — Miscellaneous Information about the 
Indiana, showing the Varied Industries carried on on Board a 
Battleship, the Guns and their Ammunition, etc. . . . 130 

CHAPTER X 

Newspaper Notices.— Press Mention of the Indiana and Matters con- 
cerning the Ship. Some Words in Appreciation of Attention 
Received . . . . . , , . _ .138 



ILLUSTRATIONS 



Captain Henry C. Taylor Frontispiece 

" He fought in the good old way." 

PAGE 

The Indiana vi 

" Of all the ships of the Navy . . . perhaps none saw more service 
than did the United States battleship Indiana." 

The Indiana as She Appeared in Dry Dock at New York 

Navy Yard, October, 1898 xiv 

Plan showing the Formation of the Naval Fleet and the 

Transports with General Shafter's Army, June, 1898 . 3 

Bombardment of San Juan de Puerto Rico on May 12TH— 

Showing the Formation and Movements of the Ships . 7 

Officers in " Battle Uniform" (San Juan) . . . . ii 

Captain Taylor of the Indiana and Commander McCalla of 
the Marblehead Have a Consultation with a Cuban 
Colonel concerning Approach to Daiquiri with the 
Transports ! 5 

The Cuban Colonel Leaves the Ship, the Side Manned and 
the Captain and Officer of the Deck Henderson Doing 
the Honors r 9 

General Shafter's Army being Transported to Cuba, the 

Indiana Senior Ship, and Captain Taylor in Command . 23 

The Indiana in Action, July 3D 27 

Plan showing the Formation of the First Fleet goim; to 

Blockade Havana at the Outbreak of the War . . 33 

Just after the San Juan de Puerto Rico Action — Paymaster 
Frazer, Gunner Mallery, Master-at-Arms Keating, and 
Some of the "Men behind the Guns" .... 37 
"As the Crew Gathered ... on the Top of the Turrets " 39 
Plan showing the Movements of the Indiana and the Other 

Ships in the Battle of July 3D . . . . facing 44 

" It Was during a Lull at the Close of the Battle" . 47 



6i 



65 



x Jj ILLUSTRATIONS 

PAGE 

Austrian Cruiser Kaiserin Maria Theresa .... 53 

•• We saw a string of international signals run up from the signal yard- 
arm." 

Spanish Prisoners on Board the Indiana .... 57 

• h was noticeable that they donned the uniform of Uncle Sam with 
calm philosophy and without a word of protest." 
Another View of the Spanish Prisoners on Board the 

Indiana 

"Two Burning, Smoking Wrecks of What Were a Little 

While Before the Spanish Ships Maria Teresa and 

Oquendo " 

View of the Maria Teresa's Quarter-deck, Starboard Side 

after the Battle f) 9 

The Bani 75 

Composed of musically inclined members of the ship's company, this 
organization made much pleasure for all hands during the sometimes 
monotonous (lavs of inactive war duty. 

The Landing of Troops at Daiquiri— The New Orleans in 

1 he Centre of the Scene . 79 

mi Bombardment of Santiago on July 2d . . 83 
The Indiana's Battle Flags as They Flew in the Breezes 

. ! i vgo de Cuba, July 4, 1898 .... 87 
Pl m rRATED DECK, OR Flash, Plates of the 
[ANA, HIT BY SPANISH SHELL, JULY 4TH . . . QI 

A View of the Deck Beams of the Maria Teresa after the 

l.' lk l CAUSED BY THE SHELLS OF THE INDIANA AND THE OTHER 

Ships had Burned away All the Woodwork . . 95 

View of i he Port Quarter-deck of the Maria Teresa . . 101 
in Littleton W. T. Waller, Commanding Marine Guard 
of the Indiana, Captures Two Prizes . . . .107 

The Punch Bowl— Showing Dent Made by Fragment of 

Shell, and hie Fragment Mounted "3 

•| he So< APA I'.ai 1 fry Shell as it Came through the Indiana's 

quai >eck at Midnight on the Fourth of July . . 117 

! ineer Garrison Interests Two of the Indiana's 
Mascots while the Chaplain Takes a "Snap" . ■ 123 

iphies and Scenes aboard Ship x 33 

ll ■ the Visitors B ied [-he Ships on Their Return from 

. roRiE oi Pi erto Rico and Cuisa . . ■ .141 



INTRODUCTION 

A desire on the part of the crew to preserve some record of 
the services of a man-of-war performed during a stirring period 
in the country's history is natural and commendable. When, as 
in the case of the Indiana, the services have been valuable and 
have assisted in bringing to a triumphant close a war undertaken 
for the high and noble purpose of avenging affronts to the nation 
and bringing aid to suffering peoples living near our shores, this 
praiseworthy desire deserves to be recognized. 

In the case of a vessel whose officers and crew are frequently 
being changed, such a record should be prepared soon after the 
events have occurred, and to be full in detail must be a compila- 
tion of official documents and personal description. This has 
been undertaken in the case of the Indiana by certain of the 
officers and crew; and the work of Chaplain Cassard in editing 
and of Chief Yeoman Mero in compiling and publishing are 
specially commendable. 

The Indiana's record has special interest on account of her un- 
interrupted presence at the scene of hostilities. While drilling 
and preparing for war at Tortugas and off Key West she heard, 
on the 15th of February, of the destruction of the Maine, and 
the news of the declaration of war which followed in April came 
to men thoroughly ready for war and eager for revenge. Some 
ships went north to join other squadrons, but the Indiana re- 
mained close at the front and in the heart of the scene of war 
from January to August, when she sailed from Guantanamo for 
home. 

The blockade of Havana and the campaign against Puerto 
Rico, the series of events which brought about the important 
duty of convoying General Shafter's army to Santiago — a work 
of much difficulty resulting in complete success ; the blockade 



wi INTRODUCTION 

of Santiago and the bombardments connected therewith, culmi- 
nating in the battle of the 3d of July with Cervera's squadron; 
the affair of the Mercedes and the long-range bombardment of 
the city of Santiago — all these incidents, crowded into a short 
space of time, gave to the Indiana a fulness of fighting experi- 
ence and a completeness of record which was the fortune of but 
few \cssels in the war. 

Throughout this period the readiness of the ship for service of 
all kinds, and the cheerful eagerness of the officers and crew for 
work or fighting, indicated the degree of efficiency she had 
attained and of which all persons connected with the Indiana 
may well be proud. For them and their families, as well as for 
those citizens of the State of Indiana who have always evinced 
an eager and generous interest in the ship and sympathy with it 
in its triumphs, this book is published, with the hope that it may 
be satisfactory to all who wish to know the details of the battle- 
ship Indiana's part during the war with Spain. 

#T C. 




£t~U- - /$*Sftte<*£^ 



Navy Yard, New York, 
December, 1398. 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

AND HER PART IN THE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR 



CHAPTER I 

EVENTS OF THE YEAR 

The Annual Report of the Commanding Officer of the Indiana, giving the 
Official Story of One Year in Peace and War. 

U. S. S. Indiana, First Rate, 
New York, September 10, 1898. 

Sir : I have the honor to report the operations of the Indiana 
under my command from July 1, 1897, to August 20, 1898. 

The beginning of the year found us at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, 
undergoing slight repairs, the time and money allowed not being 
sufficient for the general overhauling of engines and boilers we 
needed, and the failure of the dry-dock preventing our placing 
the bilge keels which had been strongly recommended. 

We were ordered away from the Navy Yard to join Admiral 
Sicard's squadron, preparing for sea at Tompkinsville, and we 
left the yard July 27, 1897, and arrived at Tompkinsville the 
same day, saluting the flag of Rear-Admiral Miller in the Brook- 
lyn at that anchorage. On July 29th Rear-Admiral Sicard arrived 
in his flagship New York, and on August 2d the squadron sailed, 
arriving in Newport on August 3d, and participating in the files 
celebrated there on August 4th. The Indiana, leaving the squad- 
ron there, sailed August 5th for Halifax, it having been decided 
by the Department that we should have a hurried docking there 
in order to clean the bottom. We arrived in Halifax, August 7th, 
and found Naval Constructor Bowles awaiting us, I having re- 
quested the Department that a constructor be sent there to super- 



2 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

intend the preparation of the dock and all technical details of 
our docking and undocking. It was arranged between him, the 
dockmaster, and myself that Mr. Bowles should take charge of 
the work in the same manner as is customary at our navy yards, 
and the ship was docked at 7.10 A.M. August 12th. 

When the pumping of the dock had lowered the water a few 
feet, a watch was set in the double bottoms to discover any signs 
of straining as the weight of the ship was taken on the blocks. 
When the water was out of the dock a slight buckling was ob- 
served in double bottom compartments from frame No. 22 to 
frame No. 32, being most marked at frame No. 29, and decreas- 
ing forward and abaft that frame. Additional blocking was used 
under those portions of the ship's bottom, and preparations made 
to Hood the dock. This proved unnecessary, however, and the 
work of cleaning and painting bottom proceeded, the paint used 
being as follows : Mclnnes Anti-Corrosive Paint and Anti-Foul- 
ing Paint. At 10.10 a.m. August 16th the ship left the dock, 
and after coaling sailed for Par Harbor. 

The British officials showed us much attention, Governor 
Daly, General Montgomery Moore, and Vice-Admiral Sir James 
Erskine giving entertainments in our honor. The citizens, led 
by the Mayor, showed cordial eagerness to be polite, and several 
thousands of people visited the ship when in dock. The Vice- 
Admiral expressed an admiration for the ship, but feared that 
she was too heavily armed to be serviceable in rough weather. 

A few hours out from Halifax we had target practice, simu- 
lating conditions of actual battle, and manoeuvring the ship from 
the conning tower. 

During a foggy night off Cape Sable, we narrowly escaped 
running down several schooners of a large fishing fleet which we 
passed through. 

We arrived in bar Harbor August 20th, the Admiral with the 
rest of the squadron coming in August 24th. The weather there 
is good at this season and the climate healthful, and some of the 
neighboring portions of the coast, such as Plue Hill Bay, would, 
I believe, be excellent localities for the fleet drills and exercises 
in August and September. 

I eaving liar 1 1 arbor, August 31st, the squadron proceeded with- 



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PLAN SHOWING THE FORMATION OF THE NAVAL FLEET AND Till' 
TRANSPORTS WITH GENERAL SHAFTER's ARMY, JUNE, 1S9S 

( This formation was varied according to circumstances and was not always as here shon n 
KEY TO NUMBERS ON PLAN 



1. Indiana. 

2. Detroit. 

3. Annapolis. 

4. Castine. 
5- Helena. 



6. Bancroft. 

7. Manning. 

8. Hornet. 

9. Osceola. 

10. Wompatuck. 



11 Dupont. 

12. Pompey. 
1 ;. Ea^le- 

Despatch boats Ericsson 
and Rodgers. 



EVENTS OF THE YEAR 5 

out incident to the Southern drill ground off the Chesapeake, 
and exercised there at manoeuvres and target practice until Sep- 
tember 4th, when we entered Hampton Roads, and having coaled 
the ships proceeded, September 27th, to Yorktown for boat ex- 
ercises and landing drills. Leaving Yorktown October 4th, and 
anchoring in Chesapeake Bay, we proceeded thence, on October 
5th, to the drill ground and continued the exercises. 

On the night of October 9th, in obedience to signal, the 
Indiana left the squadron and anchored in Hampton Roads un- 
der orders to await there the Department's instructions, and to 
keep ready for instant departure. Having coaled at Newport 
News, I received the Department's permission to await its orders 
at Yorktown, and reaching there October 21st constructed a rifle 
range on shore and exercised at rifle, boat, gun, and sub-calibre 
practice for fifteen days. We left Yorktown November 9th, and 
proceeded to the drill ground for ship-handling practice, return- 
ing to Hampton Roads November nth, and again awaited the 
Department's instructions, until the Admiral arrived on Decem- 
ber 21st. 

During this period such overhauling to machinery as could be 
carried on was done, but the obligation to keep constantly ready 
for immediate sailing upon receipt of Department's order made 
any disabling of machinery, for the purpose of thorough repair, 
contrary to the spirit of my instructions. 

On January 7th the commanding officer was granted sick leave, 
and on January 16th the Indiana sailed with the squadron for the 
Gulf of Mexico. On the passage the boiler tubes began to give 
out in such numbers that the ship's speed was impaired, and 
upon arriving at Tortugas it was decided to retube the boilers, 
and for that purpose a set of new tubes of iron was sent to Tor- 
tugas with which to replace the old ones, which were of steel. 

The commanding officer returned from sick leave February 
14th. The news of the destruction of the Maine reached Admiral 
Sicard at Dry Tortugas on the morning of February 16th, and at a 
council of his captains he determined to proceed to Key West, 
leaving the remainder of his squadromin Tortugas. The Indiana 
lay there until March 21st, occupying the time in retubing and 
cleaning boilers, overhauling the machinery, now in much need 



6 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

of repairs, and training the crew to a high point of efficiency for 
war. Patrol boats were used to guard the entrance through the 
reef, and a vigilance was observed which thoroughly trained 
officers and crew for war. 

The time spent at the Dry Tortugas was of great benefit to the 
ship's company in preparing them for the conditions of actual 
war, and to that period and its work is largely attributable the 
excellent marksmanship displayed by the crew and officers, rising 
to its greatest value in the action of July 3d. To the same cause 
may be in great part assigned the coolness and readiness, the 
entire absence of all confusion, so noticeable throughout the 
ship's company in the various engagements of this war. 

Leaving Dry Tortugas, March 21st, the Indiana anchored out- 
side the reef at Key West to eastward of Sand Key Light. At 
this place we finished the retubing of the boilers on April 1st, 
and on April 2d went outside for a few hours' trial of the engines 
and boilers and to fire a few shots at a target. The boiler tubes 
proved to be in order, and no special defect was observed, but 
the loss of steam around pistons and through leaky valves was 
found to be so great that a speed of nine knots for cruising and 
of ten and a half for battle was the most we could expect to 
attain. The guns and mounts were very satisfactory in their 
workings. The drills and vigilant watchfulness continued dur- 
ing our stay here, and added their part to the efficiency mani- 
fested by the ship's company during the war. 

On March 26th Admiral Sicard, having been invalided by 
Medical Hoard, was relieved in command of the squadron by 
Captain Sampson. On April 20th the Indiana was ordered to 
Dry Tortugas for coal, and having coaled returned to Key West, 
arriving there at daylight of April 22(1 ; and finding that war had 
been declared against Spain and that the fleet was under way for 
Havana, we joined the column in obedience to signal without 
Hi' horing, and proceeded off Havana, where we patrolled with the 
fleet for several days and established the blockade of that port. 

It had been previously arranged that the Indiana should go as 
senior ship of a small force to cut telegraph cables and recon- 
noitre along the east and south coasts of Cuba; and in pursuance 
of this plan I was notified by the Commander-in-Chief to pro- 




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EVENTS OF THE YEAR 9 

ceed on this expedition. I left the blockade therefore on the 
26th and proceeded to Tortugas for coal ; while there I received 
notice of a telegram from Secretary Long to the Commander-in- 
Chief, directing him not to cut any cables. Having coaled and 
reached the Sand Cay anchorage near Key West, I awaited fur- 
ther instructions, and when none were received I telegraphed the 
Department as follows : " Shall Indiana, Detroit, and auxiliaries 
drag for cable off Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo and destroy 
it?" the Department's reply being as follows: "Not to cut 
cables until further orders." I therefore proceeded, under the 
Commander-in-Chief's orders, in case of the Department's tele- 
graph being of that nature, to Havana and resumed blockade. 

On the 1st of May, news having been received of the departure 
of Admiral Cervera's squadron from the Cape Verdes for the 
West Indies, the Indiana proceeded to Key West and coaled 
ship, and on May 3d returned to the blockade, and on May 4th 
proceeded with the Commander-in-Chief and squadron to the 
■ eastward. The lack of thorough navy-yard work on this ship 
now became very marked, and the effort to maintain ten knots 
caused serious defects to appear in engines and boilers, culminat- 
ing on May 6th off Cape Haitien in a slight bulging of crown 
sheets in several furnaces, and a consequent further reduction of 
steam pressure carried and of speed. Continuing the squadron's 
movement to the eastward, we arrived off San Juan de Puerto Rico 
before daybreak on May 12th and formed for attack, the prin- 
cipal column being Iowa leading, with Commander-in-Chief's 
flag temporarily carried, Indiana, New York, Amphitrite, Terror; 
the Detroit and Montgomery .were used as flankers and guides in 
the attack. 

At 5.20 stood in for the entrance of the harbor of San Juan, 
and reaching a point marked by boat A, turned to eastward and 
steered for a point B, marked by the Detroit, and thence to the 
northward and westward until out of range. This round was 
made three times, the firing continuing from A to B. 

We opened fire, following the movements of the flagship, at 
daylight, and continued the firing during the three passages made 
in front of the forts. The morning was dull and the mist hung 
low, to which was added the smoke of our guns and of the en- 



10 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

emy's, obscuring our aim to a serious degree, and forcing us to 
reserve our fire or to waste ammunition without obtaining re- 
sults. We therefore fired a comparatively small number of pro- 
jectiles (one hundred and eighty-seven), of which those in the 
first round did less execution than those in the latter two, serving 
as test shots for the range, and resulting finally in very effective 
shooting on the second and third passages before the forts. The 
enemy also, surprised only for a moment, had gathered to their 
guns by this time and replied with spirit during the two latter 
rounds, and the action now became brisk and vigorous on both 
sides. 

Our fire was very effective. A few shots fell short in the first 
round, but the range being corrected, nearly every projectile 
told either against the Morro and battery adjacent or the houses 
of the town and small shipping of the port. 

A French officer, Captain of the corvette Rigault de Genouilly, 
which was at the time in the port and in a very sheltered posi- 
tion, told me afterward that our fire had been very destructive to- 
houses and batteries on shore, and to the spars and smokestacks 
of his ship, which was sheltered in its hull by the walls and 
houses of the dockyard intervening. This French captain, with 
whom I had a long conversation a few months afterward in Guan- 
tanamo, seemed much impressed with the effectiveness of the 
fire of our ships. 

After the third round the Commander-in-Chief, in the Iowa, 
led out of action to the northward and westward a few miles, and 
after a council with some of his captains decided not to renew 
the action, the fighting already done having developed the fact 
that Cervera's squadron was not in San Juan, and his instructions 
being to seek him out and destroy his ships. 

Returning to the westward, when off Puerto Plata, San Do- 
mingo, news was received by the Admiral that Cervera's squad- 
ron had reached Curacoa, and sailed thence in a northwesterly 
direction, and that his ships were foul and not well supplied 
with coal. It was thought that Cervera would proceed from 
Curacoa to one of four points — San Juan, Santiago de Cuba, 
Cienfuegos, or Havana. The first was thought unlikely because 
our fleet was in that vicinity; the second more probable, but still 




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EVENTS OF THE YEAR > 3 



unlikely, because our fleet was nearer there than the two last men- 
tioned places. Cienfuegos and Havana were therefore thought 
the two ports to which Cervera would direct his course, and in 
consequence the squadron was ordered to hasten to Key West, 
and prepare to meet the enemy off Havana, while the flying 
squadron under Commodore Schley was directed to Cienfuegos. 

What actually happened was that the enemy went to Santiago, 
moved thereto by scant coal supply and other reasons unknown 



to us 



Arriving at Key West on the 19th of May, the ship was coaled 
and proceeded off Havana, where she remained until news was 
received by the Commander-in-Chief that the Spanish squadron 
had gone to Santiago de Cuba, when we left the Havana block- 
ade on May 23d and proceeded in company with the Commander- 
in-Chief, Commodore Watson, and a numerous squadron to the 
neighborhood of Cape Francese on the north coast of Cuba, 
where the Old Bahama Channel divides into the two channels 
Nicolas and Santarem. Here a strict watch was kept .lay and 
ni^ht to intercept the Spanish ships if they came eastward, and 
this position was held until certain news was received that Cer- 
vera's squadron was still in Santiago, and observed by ( ommo- 
dore Schley's, which had proceeded there from Cienfuegos, upon 
being convinced that the enemy was not in the latter port. 

This being known, the Commander-in-Chief with two ships 
left for Santiago, and the Indiana was ordered to coal at Key 
West and occupy a few days in working at boiler repairs with 
the help of a force of mechanics sent there by the Department 

from the North. 

Wing at Key West May 30th the ship was coaled, and the 
boiler repairs were undertaken, but without success, the Key 
West force of mechanics not being yet equipped to work at 
such short notice. The opportunity was seized, however, to 
thoroughly clean and scale the boilers, and a force of divers, 
sent to Key West from the North, cleaned the ship s bottom 

quite thoroughly. 

During this period I was notified that I would have charge of 
the convoy destined to take General Shatter's army from lanq.a 
to Santiago de Cuba with the Indiana as senior ship, and was in- 



14 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

structed by the Department through Commodore Remey, com- 
manding the Key West Naval Base, to make all preparations for 
this duty. The time of repairs was therefore spent by the com- 
manding officer of the Indiana in organizing the expedition, 
drafting the regulations, and indicating the precautions against 
attack from the small vessels of the enemy stationed in the bays 
and rivers along our route. In this work I was much assisted by 
Commander Hunker, who, being stationed at Tampa with the 
transports, carried out with much ability the details of the organi- 
zation, and later took charge of the sailing from Tampa, turning 
over the convoy in excellent order to me at Dry Tortugas. 

When about ready to sail, news was brought to Key West that 
a squadron of Spanish vessels had been seen the night before in 
that vicinity, and in consequence the Indiana was made senior 
ship of a reconnoissance of the channels and shores in that vicin- 
itv. The force placed under my command included the Detroit, 
Montgomery, Vesuvius, Bancroft. The Indiana, assisted by this 
force, made a thorough examination of the channels north of 
Cuba as far east as Cay l.obos, and returned to Key West on 
June 12th, having developed the fact that none of the enemy's 
vessels were in that locality. 

The transports sailed from Tampa on June 14th, and on June 
14th the Indiana sailed from Key West with her consorts and, 
anchoring off Dry Tortugas, awaited their arrival. On the even- 
ing of June 15th they were sighted approaching from the north, 
and on the following morning the Indiana hoisted the senior 
pennant and her commanding officer took command of the ex- 
pedition. The transports were thirty-five in number, carrying 
about sixteen thousand men, under command of General Shafter, 
and were convoyed by a force of fifteen vessels, consisting of the 
Indiana, Detroit, Annapolis, Castine, Helena, Wasp, Wompa- 
tuck, Manning, Bancroft, Rodgers, Kricsson, Dupont, Osceola, 
Hornet, and Eagle. 

The merchant vessels were formed in three columns, twelve 
in a column, with three men-of-war as column leaders. The 
Indiana took position upon the right of the leaders of columns. 
The rear division was placed under direction of Commander 
Dayton in the Detroit, which ship took position in the rear of 




i-> r « 



EVENTS OF THE YEAR 1 7 

the last ship of that division. Commander Clover in the Ban- 
croft, assisted by some of the smaller vessels, was placed in com- 
mand of the rear-guard, with directions to allow no transport to 
drop astern of him. 

After the first day's steaming it became apparent that to keep 
the merchant ships closed up would result in a great lengthening; 
of the voyage. It was in every way important that the transit of 
these troops should not be delayed unduly. I therefore, having 
arranged for the disabled or laggards to be cared for and pro-, 
tected by a sufficient force under Commander Clover, proceeded 
at a reasonable speed with the remainder of the convoy, com- 
municating with the rear-guard from time to time by means of 
the small despatch -boats. This method proved entirely success- 
ful, and Commander Clover of the Bancroft was able to so hasten 
the slower transports in the rear that he arrived and joined my 
command within two hours after my arrival with the main body 
of the convoy off Santiago. 

There were few incidents of note during the passage. Upon 
the first day out I visited the Seguranca, General Shafter's flag- 
ship, having saluted him with thirteen guns from the Indiana, 
and paid my respects and informed him of the general outline 
of the route proposed and the rules I had made. On the after- 
noon of the same day I sighted the broad pennant of Commodore 
Watson on the Montgomery, which I saluted with eleven guns, 
and received by signal from him congratulations upon the good 
order of my command. During the forenoon of the third day 
out Commander Hunker in the Annapolis, which led the north- 
ern column, reported the water shoaling, and signal was made 
to steer more to the southward in order to take greater distance 
from the edge of the Bahama Bank. The next forenoon, being 
through the Bahama Channel, and as General Shafter expressed 
a desire to communicate with some of his rear transports, I sig- 
nalled the convoy to stop and to close up ; and after a few hours' 
stay, and the rear ships having closed up, we continued on our 
course to the eastward. 

The route had been planned so that we should pass close to 
Great Inagua Island, in order to take advantage of the smooth 
water under its lee if any ship should be disabled or in need of 



I 8 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

supplies. This precaution was amply justified by the result. 
( >ne of the transports loaded with pack mules, a most important 
part of the army's equipment, ran short of water as we ap- 
proached Inagua, and I was obliged to send her with escort of 
naval vessels into the smooth water to leeward of the island, and 
transfer water from another army transport to prevent the total 
loss of these valuable animals. 

Turning the head of our column to the south at Inagua, and 
passing Cape Maysi and the south shore of Cuba at the distance 
of fifteen miles, I sent in a despatch-boat to Guantanamo at day- 
light and later to the fleet off Santiago to notify the Admiral of 
the arrival of the convoy. When we reached a point 15 miles 
south of Santiago entrance I received orders from Admiral Samp- 
son to remain in charge of the convoy, and hold it off shore for 
a day or more until the place of landing the troops had been 
decided upon. 

We remained stationary during the first night, but in the morn- 
ing so much loss of position was noted from drifting, though sev- 
eral of our small vessels worked energetically to whip them in, 
that I determined to keep the squadron and convoy underway 
during the second night, more especially because the hour de- 
termined upon for landing at Daiquiri was so early as to leave 
no time to adjust any confusion in the convoy after daylight. 
I therefore determined to keep under way in three columns dur- 
ing the second night, and turning the heads of columns a few 
points at a time, to avoid the risk of breaking the formation, 
make a circle during the night and approach Daiquiri from the 
W. S. W. with the port column composed of transports first to 
land near the shore. 

Requests from General Shafter for numerous changes of posi- 
tion among the ships of the convoy, not mentioned till the after- 
noon was well advanced, made the task difficult, and orders from 
the Commander-in-Chief to make certain disposition which did 
not reach me until nearly midnight, all combined to render the 
night's task difficult to perform. By the constant and untiring 
work of all the naval vessels, the evolution was, with slight ex- 
ceptions, successfully carried out, and at daylight the heads of 
columns approached Daiquiri. The St. Louis and New Orleans 








Y 1 



EVENTS OF THE YEAR 21 



were lying off that point of the coast, and as the Indiana ap- 
proached, the Spanish flag on the blockhouse on the bluff over- 
looking the landing was hauled down, and the building at the 
wharf and other points in the village were set on fire by the 
enemy, who then withdrew. 

My orders were imperative to bring the Indiana to the San- 
tiago blockade as soon as the transports were in a position for 
landing their troops at Daiquiri. I therefore hauled down the 
senior officer's pennant as soon as a number of them had taken 
position, and steered for the Commander-in-Chief off Santiago. 
Arriving there at 8.25 a.m., the flagship signalled the Indiana 
at 9.25 a.m. to go close in. 

Understanding this signal to mean us to engage the batteries, 
and the Texas being already engaged, we went in and opened 
fire, first on the eastern battery and the Morro, and later, ha\ in- 
silenced them, we steamed to the westward across the entrance, 
engaging the Socapa and Punta Gorda batteries, until signalled 
to withdraw. These batteries engaged us briskly, and their pro- 
jectiles, though generally wild, fell at times quite near us, one 
of them exploding under water so near the ship's side as to dish 
one of the bow plates. 

After this affair the Indiana resumed her station on the block- 
ade, and remained on that duty without incident of special 
note, outside the engagements, throughout the remainder of the 
campaign. 

On the 30th of June the Indiana went to Guantanamo for coal, 
and while there learned that the fleet would attack the batteries 
at Santiago entrance on July 2d, and keep them engaged while 
the army, then in position in front of the city, would advance 
upon the intrenchments which protected the city. As this prom- 
ised to be a serious action, the Indiana hastened her coaling and 
finished at midnight of July 1st. 

At 4.30 a.m. on July 2d, the Indiana having just returned 
from Guantanamo, the flagship signalled the Indiana, " Take 
position between flagship and Oregon. We engage the batteries 
at daylight. Receive Mr. Staunton's call." In obedience to 
this signal took station assigned, cleared for action, and at 5.25 
beat to general quarters. Closing inshore, a bombardment of 



22 THK BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

the eastern batteries was commenced with the port battery, in 
obedience to Ceneral Signal Xo. i. At 6.15 ceased firing, but 
commenced again at 6.31, having obtained permission to do so 
by signal. 

• At 6.45 ceased firing and took position to westward, and at 
7.05 opened fire with starboard battery upon Punta Gorda Bat- 
ter)'. At 7.32 ceased firing and secured in obedience to signal. 
Many shots fell near us, but we were not struck. 

When close under the Morro one of our shots appeared to 
carry away the Spanish flag there. 

While the crew were at quarters at 9.37 a.m. of July 3d, pre- 
liminary to general muster, noted two guns fired from the Iowa 
and general signal, " Enemy's ships escaping," flying. At once 
cleared ship for action, and the crew were at the guns in a re- 
markably short time, the officers and men showing an alacrity that 
indicated clearly. their pleasure at the opportunity offered them. 

The Spanish squadron was seen emerging from the harbor, and 
in a few moments a general action ensued. The leading ship, 
which proved to be the Infanta Maria Teresa, flying the flag of 
Vice-Admiral Cervera, was followed by the other vessels of the 
squadron as follows : Vizcaya, Cristobal Colon, Oquendo, and 
the torpedo-boat destroyers Furor and Pluton. The enemy's 
vessels headed to the westward, and our ships headed in the 
same direction, keeping as nearly abreast of them as possible. 

This ship fired on all of them as they came out one by one, 
and continued the action later by firing principally at the Maria 
Teresa, Oquendo, Furor, and Pluton. Several of our shells were 
seen to take effect on these vessels. Our secondary battery guns 
were directed principally on the destroyers, as also were the 
6-inch guns. The destroyers were sunk through the agency of 
our guns and those of the Gloucester, which vessel had come up 
and engaged them close aboard. 

The initial fire of all the Spanish ships was directed at this 
vessel, and although falling very close, only struck the ship 
twice, without injury to ship or crew. 

Our ranges were obtained by stadimetre angles on the Morro 
as the ships emerged, and then by angles on the tops of the rear 
ships. The ranges were from forty-five hundred to two thousand 










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EVENTS OF THE YEAR 25 

yards, observed from the tops. From the bridge I could see 
that our shooting was excellent and showed its effects. One of 
our 13-inch shells was seen to enter the Maria Teresa under the 
quarter-deck and explode, and that ship was observed on fire 
very shortly after. 

We were now very well satisfied with the results of persistent 
drilling of the battery and firing at a target, to which we had given 
such close attention during the twelve months preceding the war. 
Our percentage of hits, judging by the eye, was very large, and 
the fire from this ship alone was so accurate and so sustained as 
to beat down the fire of the Spanish ships, and to inflict upon 
them injuries which greatly hastened the end of the battle. The 
Vizcaya, Oquendo, and Maria Teresa all felt the effects of our 
guns, the last two being under our fire until they surrendered. 

The Pluton and the Furor, which were engaged by the Glou- 
cester, were practically destroyed by the fire of the secondary 
.battery of the Indiana. 

About 10.15 observed the Maria Teresa and Oquendo on fire 
and heading for the beach, the fire from their guns having ceased. 
We now devoted our special attention to prevent the escape of 
the destroyers, which appeared to be more than a match for the 
Gloucester, she being the only small vessel near to engage them. 
They were seen to blow up, apparently hit by our 6-inch and 6- 
pounder guns. We now fired our large guns at the Vizcaya, which 
was at long range. She made for the beach soon after on fire 
and battery silenced. These ships hauled down their colors as 
they made for the beach. The Spanish flagship hoisted the 
white flag as she grounded. 

We now ceased firing. The Colon was observed well over the 
western horizon closely pursued by the Brooklyn, Oregon, and 
Texas, off shore of her. The flagship New York, steaming full 
speed to the westward, as soon as the Vizcaya surrendered, sig- 
nalled us, " Go back and guard entrance of harbor." Several 
explosions were observed On board the burning ships. At noon 
turned and stood to the eastward for our station in obedience to 
the above signal. Observed the Harvard and several transports 
standing to the westward. 

About 12.30 the Resolute came within hail and informed us 



26 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

by megaphone that a Spanish battleship was sighted to the east- 
ward standing toward us. Later the Harvard passed, confirming 
the information, and adding that the ship was painted white. 
We made out the vessel ahead and stood for her with our guns 
bearing. She proved to be the Austrian armored cruiser Kaiserin 
Maria Theresa. She sent an officer on board and requested per- 
mission to enter the harbor. I referred him to the Commander- 
in-Chief. She then stood to the westward and we resumed our 
station. 

After the destruction of Cervera's fleet the Indiana continued 
off Santiago de Cuba until July 17th, partaking in the long-range 
bombardment of that city on July 10th and nth. 

On the 17th the Indiana proceeded to Guantanamo Bay, where 
repairs were made upon her boilers by her own force and that of 
the Vulcan. At the same time all preparations were made for 
the voyage across the ocean with covering squadron with the 
Eastern Squadron. This being abandoned, the Indiana left 
Guantanamo with the flagship and other armored ships and 
arrived in New York on August 20th. 

The ships there received a public welcome, the fleet steaming 
up to Grant's tomb, firing a salute in passing, and then returning 
to the anchorage off Tompkinsville. 

Respectfully, 

H. C. Taylor, 
Captain U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. S. Indiana. 

Tin: Secretary of the Navy, 
Washington, D. C. 






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.CHAPTER II 

GETTING READY FOR HOSTILITIES 

A Running Story of the Indiana's Preparations for War, her Conduct 
under Fire, and a Word Picture of Events on Board in Action. 

Of all the ships of the Navy that participated in the war cam- 
paign around the Cuban and Puerto Rican coasts, perhaps none 
saw more service than did the United States battleship Indiana. 
So it is quite appropriate that in telling the story of one 
ship's part in the war the Indiana should be taken as a typical 
subject. 

There were other things in addition to fighting, battering down 
fortifications, and sinking enemy's fleets to occupy the attention 
of the officers and men on board ship during the short time the 
war lasted and the exciting weeks just preceding active hostili- 
ties, but they have been rather lost sight of by the general public 
in admiring contemplation of the great work with the guns, the 
spectacular finale of the whole affair. But thrown into the back- 
ground by the more popular and more noisy demonstrations, 
these preliminary movements were nevertheless of great impor- 
tance, and in one of the most important the Indiana was very 
actively concerned. This was the convoying of General Shafter's 
army from Tampa to Santiago under the command of Captain 
Taylor, with the Indiana as senior or flag ship. Upon the com- 
manding officer of this ship devolved the task of arranging for 
the safe transportation of the sixteen thousand soldiers and the 
protection of the thirty-five transporting steamers from possible 
Spanish attack on the way. 

That this was done so successfully, and the expedition landed 
at the prearranged destination on time and without a single mis- 



30 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

hap worthy of mention, reflects no little credit upon the naval 
officers who made the plans and carried them out. Captain 
Taylor was the recipient of many words of praise and much con- 
gratulation upon the safe and successful undertaking. 

But to start at the beginning. Preparation for active warfare, 
which came according to expectations later, was begun by the 
Indiana, in common with all the other ships of the fleet, imme- 
diately after the destruction of the Maine. Among other things 
in the way of preparation was the removal of every particle of 
woodwork that could be dispensed with. This included all the 
wooden sheathing on the inside of the iron sides of the ship in 
the officers' rooms, the ward-room, and the cabin, as well as mess 
chests and many useful but not indispensable articles forward. 
The value of this wholesale tearing out of woodwork was shown 
in the case of the Indiana, when a Spanish shell from a shore 
mortar battery came down through the quarter-deck and set fire 
to what there was combustible in the ward-room passage-way. 
Had the usuar amount of woodwork been there, the fire might 
have been a serious one instead of a small blaze extinguished 
with perfect ease. 

Target practice was a feature of the Indiana's preparation, and 
continued a feature until there came a time to show the results 
at San Juan de Puerto Rico, and later on with Genera's squadron 
at Santiago. Not only was the wisdom of the preparation shown 
by the accuracy of the gun-fire, but as well by the absence of con- 
fusion under fire, a very important element of actual war which 
the American possessed and the Spaniards seemed to lack — one 
explanation of the actual difference between the two forces when 
on paper their strength was more nearly equal. 

The Indiana's first active war duty was in the blockade of 
I lavana. Having been at Dry Tortugas, she steamed up to Sand 
Key light to join the rest of the fleet, only to find the other ships 
already on their way to Havana. So the Indiana fell into posi- 
tion, and Captain Evans of the Iowa megaphoned over to Cap- 
tain Taylor: "War was declared yesterday; we are now going 
to blockade Havana." A hearty cheer went up from the 
men as they heard this long-expected and eagerly anticipated 
news. 



GETTING READY FOR HOSTILITIES 3 1 

An hour later and one of the fleet had taken a prize and fired 
the first hostile shot of the war in doing it. 

Closing in on Havana, all preparations were made to return 
in kind any warm reception the guns of the forts might have 
waiting for the ships. The Indiana cleared for action, and her 
13-inch turret guns were ready to do the work for which they 
were built. 

Havana did not expect a fleet of American warships just at 
that time, as it developed afterward. From the deck of the 
Indiana the city could be seen in full enjoyment of life and gay- 
ety, streets and buildings brilliantly illuminated and thronged 
with people. When the approach of the American ships was dis- 
covered there was doubtless a hurried consultation of officials in 
the city, for it was not long before the lights began to disappear 
one by one. By means of a long glass the people in the streets 
could be seen hurrying either to the water front to verify rumors 
or hastening in the opposite direction toward their homes. It 
was not very long before the city was thoroughly aroused to 
dangers they knew not of, and darkness took the place of bril- 
liancy throughout the city. But no shots were fired, and 
Havana was unharmed. 

Nerve-wearing blockade duty continued with few incidents of 
importance until the news came of the approach of Admiral 
Cervera's squadron, about the only relief being the prospect of 
a cable-cutting expedition of which the Indiana was to be senior 
ship and Captain Taylor in command, but which was counter- 
manded by orders from Washington just as the work was about 
to be begun. 

Another item of interest about this time was the capturing of 
a prize, the Spanish ship Panama, by the Mangrove, assisted by 
the Indiana. It was on April 25th that the Panama fell a vic- 
tim to these vessels, after a little persuasion in the shape of a 
plucky attack by the Mangrove and a 6-pounder shot across 
the steamer's bow fired by Boatswain Dowling of the Indiana. 
As the Spanish colors went down, a cheer that shook the ship 
went up from the battleship's decks, and there was a good- 
natured rivalry to get into the prize crew which was to go on 
board the Panama to take her into port. This prize crew was 



3 2 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

made up entirely of Indiana men, with Cadet Falconer in 
charge.* 

Leaving the Havana blockade, the Indiana went with Admiral 
Sampson and his fleet in search of Cervera's ships, with the in 
tention of engaging them in battle. It was thought they might 
have put into San Juan, and so to the Puerto Rican coast the fleet 
proceeded. Arriving there while the gray of dawn was creeping 
up from the east on the morning of May 12th, the fleet formed 
in hne of battle, with the Indiana next to the Iowa, which was 
being used for the occasion as flagship. In anticipation of action 
all hands were called aft and mustered on the quarter-deck In 
a brief speech Captain Taylor addressed the men who were about 
to go into their first battle-a battle with, as it was supposed 
the enemy's powerful fleet, who were about to give the great bat' 
tleship her baptism of fire. He assured them of his confidence 
m their ability to bring credit to the flag under which they would 
fight, to the country, to the ship on which they were serving and 
to themselves. 

At signal from the flagship, the vessels closed in on San [uan 
at daylight and opened a fire to which the guns of the Spanish 
forts on shore made a spirited reply. Three times the ships 
steamed past the forts, maintaining a brisk fire all the time 
The object of all this was to ascertain if Admiral Cervera was 
in the harbor with his fleet. It was soon demonstrated that he- 
was not, so the American ships drew out of action, the Spanish 
gunners sending a few shots after the ships as they went to sea • 
but, like all the rest, these shots hit the water mostly. This 
bombardment was the first time under fire for the Indiana and 
she acquitted herself with great credit. It was a demonstration 
°1 the benefits of being ready and a proof of the wisdom of the 
preliminary practice and maintenance of war-time precaution 

The next move in the chase after Cervera's elusive fleet took 
the Ind.ana to Key West, where she, with the fleet, was ordered 
to be ready to make a dash across to Hava na to meet the Span- 

O s T tTV er n E " I5r ° dd ' Sca ' ; J - B " Hedei * er ' Sea -: P. Downey, 
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Maher, D. Looney, Co. Seivers, W. O. Boyer, M Brooks " 



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FLAN OF FORMATION OF FLEET ON THE WAY TO HAVANA, APRIL 23, 189S 

Porter and Mayflower, advance scouts; Wilmington and Dupont, Vesuvius and Ericsson, flankers; 
Dolphin and Foote, Helena and Winslow, raar guard. 



GETTING READY FOR HOSTILITIES 



35 



ish ships if they should come to that port. As everybody knows 
now they did not come, but went to Santiago de Cuba instead. 
So it became the fleet's duty to follow. The ships proceeded 
off the northwestern coast of Cuba, and there waited to head off 
the Spaniards if they came that way from Santiago. Nothing 
being seen of them, the fleet made the next move and closed in 
on Santiago. The Indiana did not accompany the fleet to San- 
tiago, but went to Key West instead for slight repairs and coaling 
in anticipation of important convoy duty. It was while at this 
point that the army of invasion completed its preparations to 
sail, and the Indiana became senior ship of the naval convoying 
fleet. While the repairs on the Indiana were in progress her 
commanding officer was busy with the work of preparing for the 
expedition, the first movement of the sort in the history of the 
United States and one of the largest undertakings of its nature 
ever known. 

When everything was apparently ready for the convoys and 
transports to sail, there came the alarming news of a Spanish 
fleet just outside, waiting to play havoc with the troops and the 
ships en route. The Indiana at once started out with several 
smaller vessels, and made a thorough three days' search of all 
the inlets and bays along the coast of Cuba to the north, as well 
as keeping a lookout on the open sea, but not an unfriendly craft 
of any sort could be discovered. Captain Taylor returned and 
so reported to the authorities. 

Nothing further appearing to keep the troops back, and the 
navy being ready then, as at all times, the transports and con- 
voys sailed the middle of June, the Indiana acting as flagship 
and being at the right of the long triple column of vessels, each 
of the columns being headed by a warship. To keep the ships 
closed up and at the same time not hasten unduly the slower 
ships was one of the tasks which Captain Taylor had to accom- 
plish. It was done by maintaining a rear-guard under command 
of a competent naval officer, and so making certain that none of 
the transports dropped to the rear too far. Arriving at the des- 
tination on the south coast of Cuba on the morning of June 20th, 
Captain Taylor sent in a despatch-boat to Guantanamo and San- 
tiago to notify the naval authorities there of the approach of the 



36 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

troops, and the following day his big fleet was off Daiquiri wait- 
ing to land. This was done two days later. As soon as the 
troopships were in position the Indiana proceeded to Santiago 
de Cuba and took her blockading station, and remained there 
until the destruction of Cervera's fleet and the fall of the city. 
She reached there at a few minutes after eight o'clock on the 
morning of June 22d, and inside of an hour was busily at work 
helping the Texas engage the eastern battery and the guns of the 
Morro. Their guns silenced, the Indiana opened fire on the next 
set of batteries, which happened to be the Socapa and Punta Gorda 
fortifications. The gunners of these batteries made things very 
lively for the Indiana and the Texas, the two ships engaged. As 
a rule the Spanish gunnery was of the usual sort and the hits 
were few, but narrow escapes were plenty. One shell came so 
near striking the Indiana that it exploded under water, just 
under the starboard bow, leaving its imprint in one of the bow- 
plates. A few feet more and there would have been a hole down 
through the forecastle similar to the one the same guns put in 
the quarter-deck a few days later. 

The Indiana remained on blockade duty, leaving Santiago 
only occasionally for a flying trip to Guantanamo for coal. She 
was there engaged in coaling, July 1 st, when the news came that 
the fleet would attack Santiago the following day, while General 
Shafter's army, then supposed to be about to march on the city, 
conducted an attack by land. The crew was actively engaged in 
getting coal on board, a dirty job at the best and a fatiguing one 
as well. Everything indicated that this would be a serious en- 
gagement and a decisive one. The Indiana would not be in it 
unless work was pushed. So all hands proceeded to hustle in 
obedience to orders. Every man knew why the rush orders were 
given, and that added tonic to weary limbs. So well did the 
men work that all the coal was on board at midnight of the first 
day of July. It was up anchor and away at once with never a 
minute for rest. The Indiana arrived and joined the rest of the 
fleet before Santiago early on the morning of July 2d. At day- 
light, which on this morning was half-past five o'clock, the guns 
of the ships opened fire, the forts promptly replied, and the en- 
gagement was on. For over two hours the firing was incessant, 





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GETTING READY FOR HOSTILITIES 4 1 

and only when every Spanish gun was silenced the bombardment 
ceased. The Indiana escaped injury, not being hit a single time 
by any of the many shells falling and exploding all around her. 
The Squadron Official Bulletin, published during the Santiago 
blockade on the New York, gives the credit for shooting away 
the Spanish flagon the Morro to either the Indiana or the Oregon, 
and the Indiana's people feel sure one of their guns did that bit' 
of work. 




RANGE INDICATOR 
Used in action to show distance of ship from the enemy 



CHAPTER III 

MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 

The Part taken by the Indiana in the Exciting and Historical Events of 
that Day at Santiago. Her Eager Pursuit of a Supposed Spanish 
Battleship. The Sad Work of Mercy following the Battle. Official 
( trders of Congratulation. The Victorious Return North. 

After the bombardment came the great event of July 3d, 
which resulted in the destruction of an entire fleet of the enemy's 
ships of war (with the exception of one which remained afloat a 
day longer). Here the Indiana played a very important part. 
The official reports and records tell the story. They tell that 
the Indiana was closest in to the fleeing ships as they emerged 
one by one from the mouth of Santiago Harbor, that she gave 
and took the first fire of nearly every one of the Spanish vessels. 
In a report made by Commander J. G. Eaton, commanding the 
Resolute, which vessel was very (lose by during the early part of 
the fight, to Admiral Sampson, and which is on file at the Navy 
Department, it is stated by that officer that the Indiana stood 
the brunt of the first part of the fight. An extract from the com- 
mander's report is given at the end of this chapter. 

"July 3, 1898," will always remain a marked date in the 
mental calendar of every navy man who served on board the 
Indiana, or on any of the other ships that participated in the 
destruction of Spain's fine fleet of war vessels commanded by 
Admiral Cervera. The story of that day has been told and re- 
told hundreds of times since its facts were incorporated into the 
naval history of the world, but it is always of interest to partici- 
pants as well as those not so actively concerned. Eollowing is 
a description, written by Chaplain William G. Cassard of the 
Indiana, of the events of the battle of that day. This story was 
sent to the ( iovernor of the State of Indiana, with the approval 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD ao 

of the Captain of the ship and the Commander-in-Chief of the 
fleet and the Secretary of the Navy. The correspondence and 
the article are given in full : 

U. S. S. Indiana, First Rate 

GUANTANAMO, CUBA, July 20, 1898. 

To His Excellency the Governor of Indiana. 

Sir: I inclose a description of the part taken by the battle- 
ship Indiana m the action of July 3 d, between this fleet under 
Admiral Sampson, and the Spanish fleet, under Admiral Cervera 
written by Chaplain Cassard, U.S.N. , serving on board the 
Indiana. ° 

It is my wish which is shared by all the officers and crew 
of the Indiana, that your Excellency should hear from us some 
account of this important service of our ship, which, having been 
named for your great commonwealth, has always received from 
the people of Indiana such friendly notice, as well as the most 
substantial generosity in the gift of the silver service presented 
to our ship by the State of Indiana. 

Your Excellency maybe interested to know that in a skir- 
mish with the batteries on the day following the action with Cer- 
vera s fleet-that is, on the night of July 4 th-a fragment of a 
shell which exploded after penetrating the ship, struck one of 
the chests containing the silver, and bent in the side of the 
punch bowl, the fragment remaining in the indentation made 

Ihe question had been discussed as to placing the silver on 
shore when the war began, but it was decided that it would prob- 
ably be more pleasing to the people of your State, that their gift 
should share in all the hazards which the ship might undergo 
1 have the honor to be, sir, yours very respectfully, 

H. C. Taylor, 

Captain U. S. Navy, Commanding U. S. S. Indiana. 
U. S. Flagship New York, First Rate 

GUANTANAMO BAY, July 24, 1 898. 

To His Excellency the Governor of Indiana. 

Sir: I have the honor and pleasure to forward herewith an 
account of the action of the 3d of July, in which the Indiana 
took so honorable a part. She upheld then, as she has always 
done in every respect, the good name of her namesake. Yours 
very truly, 

W. T. Sampson, 

Rear-Admiral U. S. N., Commander-in-Chief U. S. 
Naval Force, North Atlantic Squadron. 



44 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Navy Department, 
Washington, August 9, 1898. 

Sir: It gives me great pleasure to forward you herewith a 
letter from Rear-Admiral Sampson, Commander-in-Chief United 
States naval force on the North Atlantic Station, inclosing a let- 
ter from Capt. H. C. Taylor, commanding officer of the Indiana, 
and an account of the part taken by the battleship Indiana in 
the engagement of July 3d, off Santiago. Very respectfully, 

John D. Long, 

Secretary of tin- Navy. 

Tiik Honorable the Governor of the State of Indiana, 
Indianapolis, Ind. 

Story of the Ship's Action 

On the morning of the memorable 3d of July the Indiana lay 
about two miles off the entrance to Santiago Harbor. The day 
opened clear and warm, and gave every promise of being not 
unlike the days of waiting that had preceded it. The hope that 
Cervera would come out and give battle, or attempt to escape, 
had been almost abandoned. But there had been no relaxation 
of vigilance. Searchlights played upon the entrance at night, 
and a constant and careful lookout was maintained by day ; every 
department of the ship was kept in the highest state of efficiency. 
This vigilance was to have its reward, beyond our highest expec- 
tation, and the matured plans of Admiral Sampson, perfected to 
the highest point during the many weeks of watching, were to 
have a triumphant fulfilment. At 9.30 a.m. we went to ordinary 
quarters. This was to be followed by general muster, and this in 
turn by church service. The crew was in mustering white, and the 
officers had donned their best uniforms for the first time in many 
moons. In fact, we were preparing, in an orderly manner, to 
carry out the fixed routine of the first Sunday of the month. But 
I been ordered otherwise. A page of history was to be made. 

This hour was to be henceforth memorable in the story of 
American triumph and progress. A mighty blow was to be 
struck for freedom and justice. This southern coast of Cuba 
is soon to be the theatre of the greatest naval battle in all his- 
tory. Half of the actors are on the scene, and the others will 
not keep us long in waiting. 




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MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 45 

The Indiana left Hampton Roads on January 14th. For nearly 
six months we had been in Southern waters and under a tropical 
sun. Through all the long, weary weeks of waiting we had kept 
the vigils of war. Trying times were these. But some of the 
excitement of battle and the glory of victory are to be ours. At 
9.35 a.m. the lookout in the top sighted smoke rising from the 
channel and appearing over Morro. This could have but one 
meaning. The electric word is passed, " Enemy is attempting 
to escape!" It is now fully realized that the business for 
which battleships are built is to be transacted. How the scene 
changes ! 

A moment since, carrying out the Sunday routine; now the 
alarm gongs for " general quarters " sound in every part of the 
ship. Men spring to their places. No time to change clothing, 
and we go to battle in our best. Are we excited ? No; there 
is haste, but with it is precision. Grim determination is on 
every face. No mistakes, characteristic of excitement, are 
made. No accidents occur. Captain Taylor should be, and is, 
proud of his men, and satisfied with the discipline which pre- 
vails in this supreme hour. Almost instantly the black bow of 
the Maria Teresa, Admiral Cervera's flagship, is seen poking 
out at the entrance. She is firing her guns as she comes. We 
are right in range, and her shells go whistling overhead, or fall 
in the water alongside. How they managed not to hit us will 
always be a wonder. Her gunners must have been excited and 
nervous. This, or their gunnery practice does not produce 
results that would be satisfactory to an American commander. 

Now the Indiana's guns begin to thunder their reply. Our 
range begins at about four thousand yards, and is soon reduced 
to about twenty-five hundred yards, as we crowd on all speed, 
closing in on the enemy, according to Admiral Sampson's in- 
structions, impressed upon his captains through the long period 
of waiting, in wise preparation for just such a moment as this. 
We use every gun of our starboard battery, from the great 13-inch 
to the little one-pounders in the top. One by one the Spanish 
ships came out, the Teresa being followed by the Vizcaya, the 
Colon, the Oquendo, the destroyers Furor and Pluton in the 
order named. Soon all are heading in column to the westward, 



46 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

keeping close inshore. It is to be a running fight. Our ships 
were disposed about the entrance from west to east in the fol- 
lowing order: Brooklyn, Texas, Iowa, Oregon, Indiana, and 
Gloucester ; and in this order they entered into this running 
engagement, the flagship New York being too far to the east- 
ward to participate in the early part of the engagement. Each 
of these ships, let it be said, took a creditable and important 
part in the battle. There is little doubt that every American 
vessel at some time during the engagement fired at each of the 
Spanish ships. The fire from our ship (as from all) was inde- 
scribably terrific, rapid, and constantly maintained. It is little 
wonder that the Spaniards were so soon demoralized. To have 
been on the Indiana as her batteries discharged broadside after 
broadside of death-dealing projectiles is to understand in some 
faint degree the speedy and complete destruction of Spain's 
proud Cape Verde fleet. 

At this point, and until all of our ships were well out of range, 
the shore batteries were firing as they had never fired before. 
Our ships paid not the slightest heed to them, and only after- 
ward did we remember that they had participated in the engage- 
ment. The business of the American ships was to destroy Cer- 
vera's squadron. For this had they patiently waited, and now 
that the opportunity has arrived, no earthly power can turn them 
aside from this one purpose. Our signal book shows that the 
only signal made during the entire engagement was that made 
at the very beginning, " Enemy is attempting to escape." The 
( oinmander-in-Chief , coming up in his flagship from the eastward 
at full speed, saw plainly that none other was needed. Every 
commanding officer knew what was to be done, and signals would 
have been superfluous. It soon became apparent that each ship 
had a certain part to perform in this swiftly moving drama of 
war. The position of the Indiana with reference to the enemy's 
ships was such that it seemed wise for us to address ourselves to 
the Teresa, Oquendo, and the two destroyers. Captain Taylor, 
therefore, ordered from time to time that our fire should be con- 
centrated upon these vessels in turn. The little Gloucester, 
under Lieutenant-Commander Wainwright, was aggressively en- 
gaging both of the destroyers. We felt that the problem would 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 

49 

be simplified with the destroyers destroyed, so our secondary 
battery was turned for a time exclusively upon them. One of 
our 13-mch shells was also fired at the Pluton and struck her 
amidships, cutting her almost completely in half. She headed 
for the shore, burning fiercely and with explosions occurring in 
her compartments at close intervals. 

The combined fire of the Indiana and Gloucester now falling 
upon the Furor, she was sunk before being able to reach shore" 
very few of her crew escaping. Our fire upon the Teresa and 
Oquendo had experienced no cessation during the little diver- 
sion with the destroyers, but had been kept up from the great 
guns remorselessly. b 

Early in the fight a great shout went up from the Indiana as 
one of our r 3 - 1 nch shells was seen to strike the port quarter of 
the Teresa. That this shell exploded was evident from the lets 
of flame which immediately sprang from every port. The fire 
thus started in Admiral Cervera's cabin did not cease to burn 
until the last vestige of woodwork had been destroyed and the 
iron nbs of his ship left naked and distorted. In an incredibly 
short space of time it was seen that the Teresa and Oquendo 
must share the fate of the destroyers. They were both on fire 
and their guns almost silenced. As we watched them, they were 
seen to head inshore, and the white flag was run up on each ship 
1he Teresa struck first, and then the Oquendo went ashore not 
more than a half-mile west of the flagship. 

There they lay, torn and beaten, a prey to the fast-devouring 
flames. As we passed these ships in hot pursuit of the Vizcaya 
we saw their crews crowding the forecastles and making frantic 
efforts to get ashore. Some, from the Teresa, were dropping 
into a solitary boat, while others were throwing themselves bodily 
into the sea and swimming for life. As they reached the shore 
they started up the mountain side, as though in dread of the ex- 
plosions from their own ships. Their fears were not groundless 
as terrific explosions, which could only have been caused by the 
magazines, were seen to occur from time to time. Our natural 
impulse was to go to the relief of these beaten and miserable 
creatures, but the stern necessities of war demanded that we keep 
on our way until the last enemy had been defeated. The Vizcaya 

4 * 



^O THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

gave a slightly better chase than either the Teresa or Oquendo, 
but in a very short time after the destruction of her sisters, she, 
too, gave up the fight and headed for the shore. With great 
masses of flame wrapping the entire afterpart of the ship in a 
winding sheet of fire, the spectacle was at once grand and ter- 
rible. A " sad but glorious " end for a man-o'-war. 

When the Indiana got close to the Vizcaya we found that she 
had received the attention of other ships of our squadron besides 
the Indiana and had suffered accordingly. It is but simple truth 
that there was nothing more needed to complete the defeat and 
destruction of the Spanish cruiser. The great victory is almost 
complete — only the Cristobal Colon is still afloat — and just one 
hour and forty minutes have elapsed since the enemy was re- 
ported to be " attempting" to escape. "Attempting" — yes, 
the word was not used without discrimination. 

For some time now the Indiana had been giving her attention 
to the Teresa, Oquendo, and the destroyers, while the Brooklyn, 
Texas, and Oregon had been hastening to the westward in pur- 
suit of the Colon, which they finally overtook and captured at 
1.50 p.m. The New York coming up from the eastward at this 
juncture, and seeing the battle practically over, signalled the 
Indiana to return and guard the entrance to Santiago, now left 
without any protection. 

Now when it appeared that our fighting was over for the day, 
Captain Taylor made a speech of characteristic modesty and 
brevity to the men, gathered without prearrangement on the 
forecastle: " I want to congratulate you upon your good work. 
We have had a great part in putting the enemy on the beach. 
No ship has done more." A mighty shout of victory, and then 
three heartv cheers and a tiger for Captain Taylor. The Captain 
had not left the bridge during the engagement, and was covered 
with the grimy, slippery, indescribable saltpetre deposit, so 
well known on men-o'-war.* 



* It was during the lull at the close of the battle, after all the Spanish 

ships had been beached, that the Gloucester came alongside and Lieutenant- 

mander Wainwright megaphoned word across to Captain Taylor on the 

[ndiana's bridge that he had orders to put a number of Spanish prisoners 

on board the Indiana, including Admiral Cervera. When the men of the 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 5 1 

Our way now diverges sharply from that of the ships left in 
pursuit of the Colon, and for the remainder of the day we have a 
history all our own. Carrying out the orders just received from 
the Commander-in-Chief, we swung around and headed back for 
the old berth off Morro. We had barely arrived at our accus- 
tomed station when the Resolute, coming from the eastward, 
reported a large Spanish battleship off Guantanamo and heading 
to the westward. This information had been signalled by the 
army from shore. The transports, which had been well to the 
eastward during the action, were now seen approaching us under 
all possible steam. The coming of the Spaniard had been re- 
ported to them, and they were in wild flight. We could not see 
just what Spanish battleship could be in these waters, but as the 
information seemed to be authentic, we prepared to meet the 
enemy. A large battleship was just the kind of game we were 
gunning for that day, and the Captain at once decided to meet 
the Spaniard half-way. We started eastward full speed ahead, 
and soon had the satisfaction of sighting the stranger. 

The rapidly approaching ship showed up large, white, and 
positively a battleship. This much was clear, and there seemed 
to be little doubt that the colors were those of Spain. We now 
fully anticipated a single-handed contest with a foeman worthy 
of our steel. Our guns were kept trained with care, and but the 
word was needed to send our shells crashing into the white sides 
of the supposed Spaniard. But soon we saw a string of inter- 
national signals run up at the signal yard-arm, and read there the 
nationality and name of the ship which had caused such con- 
sternation among the transports. 



crew who had swarmed out of the close, hot turrets, and from other battle 
stations, on to the forecastle heard this, there arose a cheer of exultation at 
the mention of the Admiral's name. But this was quickly stopped by the 
Captain, who called down from the bridge : 

" Roys, don't cheer. He is a brave man and he has fought well." 
The Spanish Admiral did not come on board after all ; but if he had, the 
admonition of the Captain, expressing so very soon after the fight what the 
whole country conceded afterwards, would have insured him a courteous 
reception, just as the junior officers and enlisted men of the vanquished fleet 
received when they were placed on board. 



5^ 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



She was an Austrian, and her name was the Maria Theresa. 
We still kept our guns moving around to starboard, so as to bear 
on the battleship, as we suspected a possible ruse. The red, 
white, and red of the Austrian's flag showed up clearly, and it 
seems just as well at this writing that the white in the flag was 
not discolored, so as to closely resemble the yellow centre-bar 
in the flag of Spain. Had such been the case, there might have 
been international complications. The Austrian Captain sent 
an officer on board the Indiana on a visit of courtesy. He was 
conducted to Captain Taylor on the bridge, and was surprised to 
learn that we had just been in action, astounded when informed 
of the destruction of the Spanish ships, and well-nigh paralyzed 
upon finding that we had sustained no casualties. While the 
ships were lying side by side, the Austrian band was mustered 
forward and played " Hail, Columbia." This was answered by 
a cheer from the Indiana, and so an incident was pleasantly 
closed which at one time bore the sinister aspect of war. 

It was now two o'clock in the afternoon, and officers and men 
partook of a well-earned dinner. We were now heading west, 
and about an hour later two expeditions were sent ashore in 
small boats. One of these was military in character and the 
other was to carry surgical relief to the crews of the Teresa and 
Oquendo. Lieutenant Decker was in command of the military 
expedition, and went in to where the Pluton had been run ashore 
and abandoned.* He went in carefully, with arms lying conven- 
ient for use, expecting possible resistance, as the wrecked Pluton 
was within the Spanish lines about Santiago. 

He soon found, however, that the few scattered Spaniards had 
neither means nor disposition to offer resistance. In abandon- 
in- their boat they had been compelled to swim ashore, and 
most of them were entirely destitute of clothing. Among those 
found by Mr. Decker was Lieutenant Nouval, an officer from 
the Furor. In jumping from his boat as it was going down, his 
leg had been caught in the propeller and cut off below the knee. 
Seventeen in all were found and brought off to the Indiana, 
where they were cared for with all possible kindness. It was 



Names of boats' crews at end of the eighth chapter. 



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MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 55 

found necessary to amputate the leg of Lieutenant Nouval at a 
higher point, as the bone was left jagged and exposed by the 
original and accidental amputation. The operation was per- 
formed by our senior surgeon, Dr. Ferebee, and was borne with 
great fortitude by the Spanish lieutenant. 

The relief party to the Teresa and Oquendo was composed of 
officers and men who volunteered for this service, the officers 
being Captain Waller of the Marine Corps, Ensign Olmsted, 
Dr. Costigan, Cadet Helm, and Chaplain Cassard. Every one 
in the ship, beginning with the Captain, was anxious that this 
humane service should be rendered. 

The American sailor is always ready for a stand-up fight, and 
can be relied upon, when so engaged, to conduct himself with 
bravery and skill, but he has only charity for the fallen foe. It 
was commonly remarked in all the ships that the men who fought 
with inspiring enthusiasm until the enemy was defeated, at once 
rallied with equal interest to the work of succoring the prisoners 
as they came aboard our ships. So it came about that our relief 
expedition left the ship with the hearty good-will and best wishes 
of all on board. 

Upon arriving on shore a sad spectacle met our gaze. On 
either hand lay the burning ships Teresa and Oquendo. Ex- 
plosions on board were frequent, and the guns which had been 
left loaded by the escaping crews were being discharged by the 
heat. The Spanish prisoners on shore and the Americans who 
were relieving them were in constant and great danger from these 
sources, and that no casualties were thus caused is a matter of 
real wonder. However, the work of relief went forward without 
any attention being paid to this danger. No precautions could 
be taken against it, and so it was simply disregarded. 

We found about six hundred prisoners from the two ships gath- 
ered at a common point near the Teresa, where the best landing 
could be had. The Harvard was lying just outside of the wrecks, 
and her boats were carrying off the uninjured prisoners. Little 
had been done for the wounded, of whom there were about forty, 
owing to the absence of physicians and medical stores. 

We saw only three dead on the beach, and these were drowned 
in an attempt to get ashore from the burning ships. Those who 



56 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

had been killed in action had been left where they fell, and 
there is little doubt that many of the wounded shared a similar 
fate. With the ships burning so fiercely when abandoned, and 
every crack and crevice permeated with the blinding, suffocating 
smoke of battle, the wonder is, not that so many were lost, but 
that so large a number escaped. We began without delay to 
care for the wounded. Many of them were lying in the sand, 
their wounds simply covered with rays. Dr. Costigan went to 
work with a will, the rest of us lending such assistance, as, in the 
inexperience of laymen, we were able. 

One Spanish surgeon had escaped, but so shattered in mind 
and nerve and body by the awful experiences of the day as to be 
of little assistance. However, he obeyed the instructions of our 
surgeon with a spirit which won our highest admiration. 

All of the prisoners were parched with thirst, and we were 
greeted with profoundest thanks, as with cup and canteen we 
went about doling out the warm water, of which, fortunately, we 
had carried a good supply. It was eight o'clock before the last 
prisoner, including the wounded, had been sent off to the Har- 
vard. A large bonfire had been built, and this threw its light 
upon the actors in this closing scene of the day which had been 
fraught with such different meaning to the countries at war. In 
the sombre-shadowed background stood a group of Cuban sol- 
diers. Is not this scene typical of the whole drama of the war ? 

Here are the two contending parties, and here also the Cubans, 
whose war for freedom had precipitated this larger war. 

I'pon returning to the Indiana, we found that the care of over 
two hundred prisoners had fallen to our lot at least for the night, 
and everything possible was done to make them comfortable. 
Many of these prisoners were totally destitute of clothing, and 
the man who had a suit of pajamas was the envy of his compan- 
ions. It was, therefore, necessary to clothe most of them, and 
it was noticeable that they donned the uniform of Uncle Sam 
with calm philosophy and without a protest. Among our pris- 
oners were seven officers, and these were entertained in the ward- 
room and clothed largely from the private wardrobes of our 
officers. They were modest and gentlemanly in deportment, 
and seemed deeply touched by the consideration shown them. 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 59 

After the most exciting day that many of us had ever known, we 
were not to have a night of rest. The care of this large number 
of prisoners kept many awake. The wounded required treatment 
and nursing. It was far in the morning of July 4th before the 
spirit of repose came upon our ship, and then we fell to dream- 
ing of the battle, of the wounded, of the dead — of war. 

The officers and men of Cervera's squadron did a heroic thing 
when they came out of Santiago Harbor. The captain of one of 
the torpedo-boat destroyers told us that he had scarcely slept for 
more than a month, having made nightly trips of observation to 
the entrance, in hopes of finding opportunity for the fleet to get 
out, but always finding the tireless searchlight playing full on 
the entrance, and had gone back disappointed to his admiral. 
No more chivalric was the charge of the Light Brigade, no 
more certain of death were the men who composed it than were 
many of those who sailed with Cervera. Let Americans rejoice 
in the victory of our ships, but let them respect the bravery of 
their fallen foe.* 

On the morning of July 14th our entire ship's company was 
mustered on the quarter-deck, and the following orders were 

read : 

North Atlantic Station, 
U. S. Flagship New York, First Rate, 
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, July 8, 1898. 

Squadron General Order No. 12 : 

The following despatches were received from the President 
of the United States and the Secretary of the Navy, and are 

* Immediately after the destruction of the fleet the following telegram 
was sent by the Commander-in-Chief to the Navy Department at Washing- 
ton : 

"The fleet under my command offers the nation as a Fourth of July 
present the destruction of the whole of Cervera's fleet. Not one escaped. 
It attempted to escape at 9.30 this morning ; at two, the last ship, the 
Cristobal Colon, had run ashore sixty miles west of Santiago, and hauled 
down her colors. The Infanta Maria Teresa, Oquendo, and Vizcaya were 
forced ashore, burned and blown up within twenty miles of the port. Loss — 
one killed and two wounded. Enemy's loss probably several hundred from 
gun-fire, explosions, and drowning. About 1,300 prisoners, including Ad- 
miral Cervera. The man killed was George H. Ellis, chief yeoman of the 
Brooklyn." 



60 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

published for the information of the officers and men of this 
command. 

William T. Sampson, 

Rear-Admiral, Commander-in-Chief U. S. 

Naval Force, North Atlantic Station. 

Executive Mansion, 
Washington, D. C, July 4, 189S. 

You have the gratitude and congratulation of the whole 
American people. Convey to noble officers and crews, through 
whose valor new honors have been added to the American Navy, 
the grateful thanks and appreciation of the nation. 

William McKinley. 

Navy Department, 
Washington, July 4, 1S9S. 

The Secretary of the Navy sends you and every officer and 
man of your fleet, remembering equally your dead comrade, 
grateful acknowledgment of your heroism and skill. All honor 
to the brave. You have maintained the glory of the American 
Navy. 

John D. Long. 

I*. S. S. Indiana, First Kate, 
• mi Santiago de Cuba, July 9, 189S. 
Order : 

The commanding officer congratulates the officers and crew 
of the Indiana upon the excellent work performed lately by the 
ship. The laborious coaling at Guantanamo, not ending until 
nearly midnight, was followed by the ship's immediate departure 
for Santiago, and upon our arrival there, by daylight on July 2d, 
we were ordered at once into a general action with the batteries. 
This proved to be a close action, and the effectiveness of our fire 
was commented upon by all who saw it, and was more creditable, 
since all hands went into action with the fatigue and dirt of coal- 
ing still upon them. The following day, without any warning, 
the Spanish squadron came out, and found us ready and eager 
to engage them. In the battle which followed, the coolness, 
bravery, and patriotism of officers and crew were displayed in 
the highest degree. The commanding officer congratulates all 
persons on board upon their useful and honorable services in this 
great victory, and the complete destruction of the enemy's 
squadron. 

H. C. Taylor, 
Captain ('. S. Navy, Commanding. 

The officers and men of the battleship Indiana join in greet- 
ing to the Chief Executive and citizens, not forgetting the noble 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 63 

women of the great State of Indiana. It is indeed a proud 
honor and an exalted privilege to be permitted to serve one's 
country in so mighty a ship, named for so grand a common- 
wealth. 

Executive Department, State of Indiana, 
iNDlANArous, Ind., August i?,, 1898. 

Sir: I have the honor of acknowledging the receipt of your 
valued communication of July 20th, under date of Guantanamo, 
Cuba, with enclosed account of the part taken by the battle- 
ship Indiana in the now celebrated naval engagement of July 
3d, off Santiago de Cuba, as graphically described by Chaplain 
Cassard. 

To say that I am profoundly grateful for your kind thoughtful- 
ness in this matter but poorly expresses the deep sense of feeling 
entertained by the people of this State and myself for the gener- 
ous courtesy you have manifested in thus supplying an authentic 
and thrilling recital of the brilliant operations of the great battle- 
ship, under the direction of officers who have proved themselves 
worthy of the applause and admiration, not only of the United 
States, but of the civilized nations of the earth. 

The people of our State are justly proud of the invincible bat- 
tleship that bears the honored name of this great commonwealth, 
and they are equally proud of the victorious officers and crew who 
have so successfully cooperated in giving this vessel one of the 
foremost places in the history of the navies of the world. 

Again thanking you in the name of the people of Indiana for 
your kind and thoughtful consideration, I have the honor to be, 
Yours respectfully, 

James A. Mount, 

Governor, 

Captain H. C. Taylor", U. S. S. Indiana. 



Report of the Executive Officer to the Commanding 
Officer of the Engagement with Cervera's Fleet 

U. S. S. Indiana, First Rate, 
Off Santiago de Cuba, July 5, 1898. 

Sir: 1. In accordance with paragraph 525, U. S. Navy Regu- 
lations, I have the honor to submit the following report relative 
to the engagement with the Spanish squadron off Santiago de 
Cuba on the morning of the 3d instant. 

2. The behavior of the officers and crew while under fire 
was, in my opinion, excellent. The division officers deserve 
great credit for the rapid and effective fire which was maintained 



64 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

during the action. The guns worked well and the supply of 
ammunition was sufficient. The divisions were commanded as 
follows : Lieutenant R. Henderson, powder division ; Lieutenant 
Roy C. Smith, first division (forward 13-inch turret) ; Lieutenant 
1". I.. Chapin, fourth division (after 13-inch turret); Lieutenant 
B. ('. Decker, second division; Lieutenant Thomas Washington, 
third division. No. 3 turret (starboard forward 8-inch) was 
commanded by Ensign P. N. Olmsted. The 6-pounders were 
commanded by Captain L. W. T. Waller, U.S.M.C. 

3. The ship was struck only once, by a fragment of a shell 
or a projectile of very small calibre, as the marks were very slight, 
and no damage was done to the ship, except the wrecking of the 
gig by the blasts of our own guns. 

4. I observed great advantage in the use of smokeless powder 
for the secondary battery, and would recommend anew supply be 
obtained as soon as possible as the amount on hand is very small. 

Very respectfully, 

John A. Rodgers, 
Lt.-Comdr. and Executive Officer. 
Tim Commanding Officer, U. S. s. Indiana. 

Note. — The Executive Officer has special charge, under the Command- 
ing Offici r, nf the battery of a man-of-war in action. His personal coolness 
and ability are very essential factors in battle, as was fully demonstrated in 
the case of the Indiana in her various engagements. 



Extract from Commander Eaton's Report of His 
Observation of the Battle 

U. S. s. Resolute, 
Navy Yard, New York, September 3, 1898. 

Sir: 1 consider it my duty to lay before you the following 
report of the events witnessed by myself in the action of July 3, 
1898, off Santiago. 

The Resolute, which 1 commanded, lay just east of the 
Indiana, distant from her one thousand feet, and about two and 
six-tenth miles from the Morro, when the Maria Teresa was 
sighted. 

The Indiana had been near the Morro, but about nine o'clock 
1 in led to the eastward with a port helm, leaving the Resolute 
within the arc of the circle described by the fleet. The Reso- 
lute was then turned under a slow bell and stopped when the 
Indiana was due west of us, and just outside the circle of fight- 
ing ships. The Gloucester was to the northward and eastward, 
nearly <>ii Aguadores. 




a 2 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD 67 

As the Maria Teresa appeared, the Iowa fired a 6-pounder 
and hoisted signal. Within a few seconds of this shot (not more 
than five or ten) all the Spanish batteries opened, and at the 
same instant the port broadside of the Maria Teresa was dis- 
charged. It seemed to me that all or nearly all of these shots 
and shells were fired at the Indiana, and as the Resolute lay 
directly in line, the water around the Indiana and the Resolute 
was alive with the fall of projectiles. 

Before the Vizcaya appeared, the Indiana opened with her 
heavy guns, and, with screws whitening the water astern, was 
heading for the Morro. 

As the Vizcaya came out I distinctly saw one of the Indiana's 
heavy shells strike her abaft the funnels, and the explosion of 
this shell was followed by a burst of flame which, for the mo- 
ment, obscured the afterpart of the Vizcaya. 

The Vizcaya fired her port battery apparently at the Indiana, 
for many of the shells struck about and beyond the Resolute, 
which was then headed east. 

The Cristobal Colon, as soon as she was clear off Morro 
point, fired her first broadside at the Indiana. 

The Oquendo, in coming out, also fired her first broadside 
at the Indiana, and I could see some of the Indiana's shells 
strike the Oquendo as she steamed south. 

Following close astern on the Colon and the Oquendo came 
the destroyer Furor, and I distinctly saw her struck by an 8-inch 
or 13-inch shell from the Indiana, which was followed by an 
explosion and flames aboard the Furor. 

During all this time the Indiana had been steaming ahead 
and I roughly estimated that she was then about three thousand 
yards from the Oquendo and the Furor. 

From the position of the ships engaged it appeared to me 
that the Indiana was the first to close with the escaping enemy, 
and though I could see the Teresa and Vizcaya sweeping across 
her course, it was apparent that the Indiana's shells were the 
first to reach them. This was due, first, to the Indiana's prox- 
imity ; and, second, to the fact that the Indiana had a fair beam 
target on each ship as it came out. 

In addition to the heavier shells noted as striking the enemy, 
we could count many lighter projectiles from the secondary bat- 
tery exploding on board, and as the Indiana's fire was incessant, 
I took these to be from her guns. 

The Spanish officers who were prisoners from the Colon and 
the Vizcaya have since told me that the fire from the Indiana 
and the Oregon, as they (the Spaniards) passed from the harbor, 
was deadly in its destructiveness, and that although the Colon 
escaped with small injury, due to her greater speed, and because 



68 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

in a measure covered by other ships, the Vizcaya was hopelessly 
crippled before she had gone a mile from the Morro. 

1 have ventured to address you this letter, as I had excep- 
tional opportunities for observation during this part of the en- 
gagement, and it has seemed to me that the very important part 
taken by the Indiana in the first part of the action should be laid 
before you. 

After the tremendous activities of the 2d and 3d of July, the 
Indiana and the other battleships had no further active work to 
do until the city of Santiago de Cuba was bombarded at long 
range on the 10th and nth of July. This was the last fighting 
done by our fleet. A few days later the Indiana went to Guan- 
tanamo for further repairs to her boilers. At the same time, 
preparations were made to accompany the fleet which was then 
fitting out to go across the ocean and make a demonstration 
against the Spanish coast. Sea stores were taken on board, and 
everything was about ready for the long voyage when the orders 
were countermanded upon the signing of the peace protocol. 

The foregoing is in brief the story of one ship's part in the 
last war. It touches on many points of interest, but it does not 
tell of the many privations, the peculiar combinations which the 
ship's cooks presented from time to time for the consumption of 
hungry sailors, but of which little has been said outside the ser- 
vice, for the reason that the regular enlisted man expects various 
sorts of privations and inconveniences in time of war, and he 
does not complain seriously when they come. 

In all, the Indiana took part in six important actions during 
the war, and in that time was struck but once with special dam- 
age. This was the time the Socapa Battery shell came down 
through the quarter-deck, and among other damage inflicted left 
its imprint on the ship's silver punch bowl, as told in the seventh 
chapter. 

After the engagement of July 3d there was a general overhaul- 
ing and comparison of "souvenirs" gathered after the battle 
and during the time spent on shore. In the visits to the wrecks 
of the two ships in whose destruction the Indiana was most 
concerned, during the days immediately following, quite a col- 
lection of "curios" were accumulated and brought on board, 



MEMORABLE JULY THIRD J I 

to be later brought north and distributed throughout the country 
by the officers and enlisted men among friends ashore. Among 
the articles later exhibited on board the Indiana to many thou- 
sands of visitors were a Nordenfeldt machine-gun and a boat 
anchor from the Maria Teresa, a dingy from the Pluton, and a 
collection of range-finders, torpedo directors, and firing-pins 
from the several Spanish ships. Individuals had all sorts of 
small articles of little value in money, but of much worth for 
their associations. Pieces of Spanish money, and molten gold 
and silver which had once been money, were quite numerous on 
board for a time after the fight. 

One of the flags flown during the war and the machine gun 
were carefully preserved, to be presented to the State whose 
name the ship bears with appropriate ceremony at the State 
House in Indianapolis. A section of the steel battle hatch 
through which a section of the shell that entered the quarter- 
deck penetrated has been presented to the University Club of 
New York properly inscribed. 



CHAPTER IV 

EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 

May 4th, 5th, and nth (cruising from Havana to San Juan) ; May 12th (San 
Juan de Puerto Rico) ; June 22d (Santiago Forts) ; July 2d (Santiago 
Forts) ; July 3d (Cervera's Fleet) ; July 4th and 5th (Mercedes Affair) ; 
July 10th (Bombardment Santiago) ; July nth (Bombardment Santiago). 

The following extracts from the ship's log of the Indiana add, 
in many ways, details which are omitted in the story of the war 
as told in the remainder of this book. It tells the story as the 
officers of the deck saw it from day to day as history was being 
made. The extracts begin on May 4th, when the Indiana sailed 
from the blockading station off Havana with the squadron in 
search of Admiral Cervera's fleet, then on its way from Spain. 

Wednesday, May 4, 1898 
Record of the Miscellaneous Events of the Day 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Clear and pleasant. Gentle and mod- 
erate breezes from E. N. E. and east. Moonlight; first hour 
lying to. About 8.50 Iowa had taken Terror in tow and started 
ahead. . . . The squadron got under way about 9.10, the 
Montgomery astern of flagship and the Detroit astern of this 
ship; the Niagara between the two. 

Thursday, May 5, 1898 

[Cruising with squadron.] 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Clear and pleasant. . . . At 9.30 mus- 
tered at quarters. Then went to general quarters ; ready in six 
minutes, secured in six minutes. Had instruction at battery. 
Withdrew charges and shell from guns of No. 3 turret for adjust- 
ment of sights • then reloaded. Gunner Mallery inspected maga- 



EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 73 

zine flood cocks, drains, and sea valves; found them in good 
condition. At 9 slowed and stopped, the flagship and other 
vessels having done so. Flag took Terror in tow. At 9.30 went 
ahead again. Following in wake of Iowa during watch. At 
9.40 valve-stem of low-pressure cylinder of starboard main en- 
gine broke. From that time went ahead with port engine, mak- 
ing use of about 20 starboard helm to keep course, and making 
about 5 knots. ... At 8.10 sighted barque on starboard hand. 
As she came abeam, about 9, flagship hoisted colors, fleet doing 
so also. Barque hoisted Spanish colors at mizzen. New York 
signal to Montgomery, whereupon the latter headed for barque, 
cast off tow-line of Porter, and at 9.01 fired gun " heave- 
to " the barque. At 9.09 Montgomery sent boat to barque. 
At same time flag signalled Porter to come within hail ; then 
sent her to barque and Montgomery. At 9.17 Spanish barque 
dipped colors three times. About 10 a.m. "M" signalled 
'•' F," "Vessel Spanish, from Argentine Confederation bound 
Havana, Cuba. Cargo beef." * As fleet went ahead Porter went 
with " F," leaving Montgomery with barque. At end of watch 
Montgomery coming up astern. Hauled down colors at 10.30. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Clear and pleasant. Gentle breezes from 
east. Steaming with all boilers, port engine, in wake of squad- 
ron. . . . Squadron smoke in sight ahead until near end of 
watch, when lost it. Montgomery coming up astern. A brigan- 
tine passed to starboard, and at 1.30, when bearing about W. by 
S. from us, distant three miles, intercepted by Montgomery, 
which fired two shots across her bow, heaving her to. She was 
eventually taken in tow by the Montgomery, which resumed 
course to eastward.* When in signal distance prize appeared to 
show American colors over Spanish. Press yacht Anita passing 
to the eastward about one o'clock was hailed and asked if she 
intended stopping anywhere to eastward. She replied yes, at 
Cape Haiti for coal, and when asked if she would take Lieuten- 
ant Whitney of the Army as passenger, consented. Lieutenant 
Whitney was therefore put aboard about 1.40. ... At 3.40 
made strange vessel to S. E., steamer with two masts. Mont- 
gomery and prize heading for her at end of watch. . . . 

4 to 8 p.m. — Generally clear and pleasant. Gentle breeze 
from east. About 4.05 started in chase of steamer inshore. 
Made signal to Montgomery to give chase. Went to quarters 
for muster at 4.10. Made out steamer to be the revenue cutter 
Hamilton. Returned to cruise at 4.25. . . . Land sighted 
about along starboard beam. The Montgomery passed this ship 
about 6.45. At 7 started starboard engine. At 7.10 stopped 

* See " Prizes," Chapter VIII. 



74 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



port engine to replace piston packing. At 7.15 sighted Grande 
Cay Light on starboard beam. . . . 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Fair and pleasant. Gentle breezes from 
east. At 9.25 started port engine. At 10.20 Paredon Light 
bore S. S. W. (abeam) distant 5.7 miles, and at 1 1 bore W. S. W. 
At "10.50 sighted Lobos Light bearing E. % S. just in the 
horizon. . . . 

Wednesday, May n, 1898 

.Meridian to 4 p.m. — Generally clear and warm. Gentle 
breeze from east. At 1.30 sounded call to general quarters. 
The Captain inspected the ship. Secured and held general 
muster. The Captain addressed the crew. . . . 

4- to 8 p.m. — Fair and pleasant. Gentle breeze from east. 
Swell from Xd. and Wd. At 4.30 mustered at quarters. At 
about 4.50 the squadron stopped and the Commander-in-Chief 
transferred his flag to the Iowa. During watch made prepara- 
tions for battle. At end of watch standing in column, Iowa 
leading. At 7.05 started fires in boiler A. . . . 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Clear and pleasant. Gentle breeze 
from east. . . . Keeping' position in column on Iowa's port 
quarter. . . . 

Thursday, May 12, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m.— Clear and pleasant. Bright 
moonlight, moon rising about 12.10. Gentle breeze from 
E. X. E. In column steaming about S. S. E. 3^ E. At 1.45 
connected up "A" boiler. At 2 stopped ice machine. Lights 
in sight ahead like the city lights of San Juan. At 3 called all 
hands clear ship for action. About 3 o'clock slowed to keep 
position in column, the flag having slowed. About 3.30 took 
in patent log. At end of watch going ahead slow in column, 
course S. S. E., making preparations for battle. 

4 to 8 A.M. — Fair and pleasant. Light to gentle breeze from 
E. X. I'.. At the beginning standing in for San Juan de Puerto 
Rico in column, natural order, Iowa (flagship) leading, followed 
by Indiana, Xew York, Amphitrite, and Terror. Detroit 1,000 
yards ahead of Iowa and Wompatuck 500 yards on starboard bow. 
Montgomery to rear of column and stopping to westward of 
Cabra Island. At 4.07 went to general quarters and stood slowly 
for Salinas Point. In wake of Iowa. At this time the lights of 
the city were plainly visible to the southward and eastward. At 
daylight, being close inshore, head of column turned to east- 
ward, and at 5.20 Iowa opened on batteries at a range of 4,000 



EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 77 

yards. Indiana began firing at 5.22, and other ships followed 
in succession as they came in range, and leading ships unmasked 
the batteries. The fire was not returned by the shore batteries 
for some time, and, so far as could be seen from the ship, only 
two shots were fired during first circle. When within about 
1,000 yards of the Morro, head of column turned to Nd. and Wd. 
and squadron continued to circle, as ordered by Commander-in- 
Chief, making three complete runs over the course. During 
first run all guns were used; the remainder of the time only 
large calibres. A number of the enemy's shots went over us, 
and some fell near us, but the ship was not struck and no injury 
was done to personnel or material. In preparation for action 
set adrift first whaleboat, and threw overboard some smaller 
articles. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Generally clear. Gentle breeze from 
Nd. and Ed. At 8 Iowa made signal 61 — 16 — C. The squadron 
withdrew to the westward. The batteries on shore maintained 
fire until ships were out of range. At 9.35 the Captain repaired 
on board Iowa. At 10.45 secured ship. "A" came on our 
port quarter. Took position on port quarter of " A," and being 
too close steamed ahead. Received from New York a valve 
stem to replace one broken in passage to San Juan. At noon, 
made noon reports by signal. At end of watch, lying to. Smooth 
sea. Expended the following ammunition during engagement : 
Ten 13-inch, nineteen 8-inch, twenty-nine 6-inch common shell 
and full charges ; forty-eight common and twenty-two armor- 
piercing 6-pounder shell, and twenty-two i-pounder common 
shell. 

Wednesday, June 22, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m.— Partially cloudy, clearing to- 
ward end of watch. Gentle breeze from N. E. Made the follow- 
. ing changes of course — at 12.59, 27 — C — 8, at 1.55, 27 — C — 22. 
During first hour took position at head on centre column. Land 
in sight on port beam. Sighted searchlight of vessel off Cabanas. 
This light bore abeam about 3.50. At end of watch steaming 
course N. E. by E., speed eight knots. Made signals during 
watch as per signal record book. Steam, 80. Revolutions, 
starboard, 56.4 ; port, 56.6. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Fair and warm. Light breezes from N. E. 
Standing in heading convoy for Daiquiri. Cleared ship for 
action and went to general quarters about 5.35. At 6.50 trans- 
ports and boats being ready for disembarking off Daiquiri, made 
signal to St. Louis to act at discretion as this vessel was ordered 
to Santiago ; then stood on for station off Santiago. Upon ap- 



-8 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

proaching Daiquiri the Spanish flag was hauled down from one 
of the blockhouses, and the cars and houses near the town were 
set on fire. At 7 secured the battery. At end of watch stand- 
ing W. I _. X. to join the squadron off Santiago. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Fair to clear, hazy. Gentle breeze be- 
tween X. E. and S. E. Texas opened fire at 8.10 from position 
about four thousand yards to S. W. of Morro. Gloucester and 
Eagle opened later off Aguadores, and Annapolis and Helena off 
Altares. Troops apparently landing at Daiquiri. At 8.25 
stopped with Xew York to southward and Morro bearing about 
X. W. At 9.25 received signal to go close inshore. Went to 
general quarters. Opened fire slowly when five thousand to six 
thousand yards from battery to east of Morro. Fired also at bat- 
tery on crest of hill to west of entrance. Several shot from this 
latter battery passed very near ship. Geased firing and retired 
at 11. 10 in obedience to signal from Brooklyn, New York having 
passed to eastward out of signal distance. Expended following 
rounds common shell and full charges : Three 13-inch, ten 
8-inch, eleven 6-inch, twenty-seven 6-pounders. End of watch 
standing to S. S. E. of Morro, distant three miles, at slow speed. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Fair and warm. Eight breezes from 
S. S. E. Keeping position to eastward of Oregon. First part, 
auxiliary yachts Gloucester and Eagle shelled blockhouse on 
shore. Debarkation of troops going on at Daiquiri. At end of 
watch Morro lighthouse bore N. W. % N. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Generally clear, warm. Hazy about horizon. 
Eight airs and breezes from S. S. E. About 4.20 the flagship 
passed on way to her station. Paraded guard in honor of Com- 
mander-in-Ghief. At 4.30 mustered at quarters. The Xew Or- 
leans took station to eastward of this ship about 4.30. After 
sundown took station with " F" and to eastward. Smooth sea. 
The Dupont steamed to Daiquiri and returned during watch. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Fair and warm. Light breezes from 
S. S. E. shifting to N. Ship drifting throughout watch, occasion- 
ally using engines to keep position and bearing of Morro about 
\. \Y. '.. \V. About 10.45 fi ve guns were fired from the fort. 
Searchlight from one of the vessels of the squadron turned on 
entrance to harbor during watch. 



Saturday, July 2, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Fair and pleasant. Eight 
breezes from N. W. At 2.18 changed course to W. N. W. ^ 
W., patent log reading 22.7. Passed a number of transports off 



EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 8 I 

Daiquiri and Siboney. At end of watch standing toward Morro 
Castle to communicate with the flagship. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Partly cloudy and warm. Light to gentle breezes 
from north. First hour of watch standing in toward Morro. 
Exchanged call letter with flagship. At about 4.30 flagship sig-. 
nailed by Ardois, "Take position between ' F' and 'Y.' We 
engage the batteries at daylight. Receive Mr. Staunton's call." 
At about 4.50 a.m. called all hands clear ship for action. 
Cleared ship and about 5.25 beat to general quarters. At 5.30 
"F" hoisted Gen. Sig. No. 18. Made interrogatory and by 
wigwag from " F. " This signal means close up to firing dis- 
tance. At 5.40 signal from "F" Tel. 4060 — 6555 — 1267 — 
8504. At 5.42 "F" signalled, "Open fire." Commenced 
firing with main and secondary battery, port side, at 5.43; 
ceased at 5.45-30, and commenced again at 5.45-45, and ceased 
at 6.16-20. At 6.17 from "F" Gen. Sig. Neg. 1. Used 
secondary battery about twenty minutes of the time. At 6.31 
commenced firing on battery on Punta Gorda. Commenced at 
7.05 with starboard battery, and ceased at 7.31-30. Secondary 
battery engaged part of the time. At various times during the 
action ceased firing for a few minutes, while other vessels in 
range. At about 7.35 drew off, returned to station, and at 7.56 
secured. At the beginning of the engagement a few shots were 
fired from the Spanish batteries, but soon ceased, and during the 
greater part of the engagement no activity was seen at any of the 
batteries. While the ships were drawing off four shots were fired 
from the western battery. Ammunition expended: Seventeen 
13-inch, fifty-nine 8-inch, fifty-four 6-inch, and four hundred 
and forty-three 6-pounders. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Fair and warm. Light breeze from 
S. and S. E. Drew charges from 13-inch guns. General clear- 
ing. Resumed old station inshore of New York. Routine and 
message signals as per record book. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Fine weather at sea, but clouded up 
ashore to Nd., and the wind, a light breeze from E. and S. Ed., 
shifted suddenly last hour to N. E. becoming moderate. Rain, 
thunder, and lightning ashore. Drifting near flagship, Morro 
bearing about N. W. At 1.30 started dynamo again. At 2 
flagship signalled to Indiana, " Commanding officer repair on 
board," in obedience to which the commanding officer went 
aboard in the gig ; Lieutenant Chapin accompanied him. Boat 
from " F " brought Lieutenant Capehart. At 2.30 Gloucester 
sent mail aboard, and at 3.30 the Vixen also sent mail. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Generally clear and pleasant. Light airs and 
breezes from north to N. E. At 4.30 mustered at quarters. 
Loaded all guns of main battery. The flagship made signal, 
6 



8 2 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

"Take your former blockading station inside of us." C. A. 
Goodwin, (i. M. i c, returned on board from the flagship. Sent 
out picket launch with Naval Cadet Smith in charge. About 8 
sighted large lights on mountains to the Wd. of Santiago near 
coast, having appearance of signal lights. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Clear and pleasant. Light breeze from 
north. On blockade position until 11.30, when steamed over 
and relieved the Texas supporting the searchlight vessel. 



Sunday, July 3, T898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Clear and pleasant. Light 
breeze from N. by W. and X. X. W. Barometer steady. Bright 
moonlight. Took station guarding entrance near ship using 
searchlight, and remained there during watch, keeping port bat- 
tery manned and guns trained on entrance. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Clear to cloudy. Light and gentle breezes from 
X. X. E. and X. E. Left station off harbor entrance at day- 
light and resumed blockading station. Assistant Engineer T. C. 
Dunlap, U.S.N., was detached from this ship and transferred to 
the Oregon. Picket launch returned and was hoisted in. Fern 
arrived towing a barge. Message signals as per record book. 

5 \.m. to Meridian. — Clear and warm. Light breezes from 
the Xd. and Wd. Smooth sea, light swell from Sd. and Ed. 
Mustered and inspected at quarters at 9.30, preparing for gen- 
eral muster. At 9 the flagship Xew York made Gen. Sig. 162, 
and stood to the eastward toward Siboney, ordering the Fern, 
Hist, and another small craft to follow. While at quarters the 
Iowa fired two signal guns, apparently to attract attention to 
the Gen. Sig. 250 which she had hoisted, this being signal for 
" Enemy's ships escaping." A Spanish armored cruiser was 
seen emerging from the channel leading into the harbor. Went 
to general quarters on the instant, and a general action began 
within a very few minutes. The leading Spanish ship, which 
eventually proved to be the Infanta Maria Teresa, flying the 
flag of Yh (-Admiral Don Pasquale Cervera, was followed by 
the other vessels of his squadron as follows — viz. : Vizcaya, 
Cristobal Colon, Almirante Oquendo, armored cruisers, and 
the torpedo-boat destroyers Furor and IMuton. The vessels 
present on the blockade of the American fleet were the Brooklyn 
(flying Commodore Schley's pennant), Oregon, Iowa, Indiana, 
Texas, and (iloucester. Our squadron headed to the westward, 
keeping as nearly abreast the Spanish ships as possible, the latter 
going, all of them, to the westward and well inshore. This ves- 
sel tired on all of them as they came out one by one, and con- 






' 



- 

: % r 



i 






f 



a: •: °« 



' 






• : 






EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 85 

tinued the action later by firing principally on the Teresa — 
which had dropped back to third position — Oquendo, Furor, and 
Pluton. Several shells were seen to take effect on these vessels, 
particularly on the first and the last two, the two latter being 
destroyed through the agency of our guns and those of the Glou- 
cester, which vessel engaged them close aboard. Before 10.15 
the Maria Teresa and Oquendo were run ashore about five and 
one- half miles to the westward of the entrance and on fire, and 
the destroyers were both blown up. Later observed the Vizcaya 
on fire, and she was run ashore about fifteen miles to the west- 
ward of the entrance. The Cristobal Colon at end of watch was 
well down on western horizon near shore and pursued by the 
Brooklyn, Texas, and Oregon. Passed the burning vessels Maria 
Teresa and Oquendo about it.* At 11.27 the flagship New 
York came up and passed inshore of this ship, going to the 
westward at full speed, signalling us Gen. Sig. 2305 and by 
wigwag, " Go back to entrance of harbor." Returned wig- 
wag signal, " Beg to assist in capture of remaining Spaniard," 
and at 11.29 made G. S. to her 2877. At 12 were signalled 
by the Gloucester — Tel. 2823. Then turned and stood to the 
eastward in obedience to signal. Saw numbers of transports 
coming westward from Siboney and Daiquiri about noon. At 
various times observed heavy explosions on board the Oquendo 
and Maria Teresa, and many men from both vessels on shore, 
while others were jumping overboard from their bows and others 
going off in one or two boats. Expended during the action 
ammunition as follows — viz. : 13-inch common shell and re- 
duced charges, 13 ; 8-inch common shell and full charges, 61 ; 
6-inch common shell and full charges, 33; 6-pounder charges, 
1,744; i-pounder charges, 25. No casualties occurred through 
the enemy's fire, and as far as could be determined only one pro- 
jectile, apparently a i-pounder, struck the ship, that being on 
the side of the after 13-inch turret, making a very slight scar. 
At end of watch the before-mentioned vessels were in pursuit of 
the Cristobal Colon, and the New York was going westward at 
full speed. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Generally clear and warm. An officer 
from the Austrian armored cruiser Kaiserin Maria Theresa came 
on board. Later the ship stood to the westward. The Ericsson 
came up from the westward to inquire character of vessel which 
had been reported as an enemy. Two boats were fitted, the 
steam cutter and third cutter, to aid wounded of ships on shore. 

* Note by Commanding Officer. — 10.30 was about the time of pass- 
ing the Maria Teresa and Oquendo, as observed by the Commanding- 
Officer. H. C. Taylor, Captain, 



86 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

At end of watch lying-to, Morro bearing about N. by E., the 
Iowa in sight to westward. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Fair and warm. Light breezes and airs from 
N. N. E. Keeping station off entrance to Santiago Harbor. 
At 5.10 the Gloucester came near and transferred to us sixty-two 
prisoners of war. The commanding officer called on board the 
Iowa. Paraded guard to the Spanish Vice-Admiral Cervera pass- 
ing in ] tailing boat to go on board the Iowa. Sent steam cutter 
and two pulling boats to the assistance of the wounded and cap- 
tured of the Spanish ships. Message signals as per record book. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Cloudy to clear. Light breeze from N. 
Keeping blockading station. Received prisoners and wounded 
as follows from the Hist : One officer, one hundred and thirty- 
nine men, of whom five were wounded; from shore by our own 
boats, one officer from the Furor wounded, fourteen men from 
the Teresa, one man from the Oquendo, one man from the Furor. 
1 Iarvard and Brooklyn arrived from westward, the latter bringing 
news of the capture of the Colon at 1.15, thus accounting for all 
the Spanish vessels that came out of Santiago this morning. 



Monday, July 4, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Clear and pleasant. Light to 
gentle breezes from north and N. N. W. Lying off entrance of 
harbor of .Santiago on blockade. Large number of Spanish pris- 
oners on board. The Dupont passed close aboard, going to the 
eastward, at 9.45. At 10.25 observed heavy explosion from the 
Almirante Oquendo, which vessel and the Maria Teresa are still 
burning. At to the Solace joined the blockading force. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Generally clear and pleasant. Gentle breeze 
from N. N. \V. The flagship steamed up from the westward 
about 4.30, standing for Siboney. The English gunboat Alista 
was sighted to Sd., and a steam launch with an officer was sent 
to board her. About 7 the steamship Silvia was hove to and 
boarded, having shown signs of attempting to pass the blockading 
line. She was boarded and allowed to proceed as she was used 
by newspaper correspondents. During the watch the Austrian 
ship Kaiserin Maria Theresa and an English cruiser were sighted 
to the eastward standing toward the flagship. Later the small 
English gunboat was seen at the mouth of the harbor. Trans- 
ferred seven wounded Spanish sailors and one officer to the Solace 
for treatment. Smooth sea. At daylight dressed ship with 
national ensign at truck, with flagship. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Fair and warm. Light airs to moderate 
breezes from the E. At 9.30 mustered at quarters. Unloaded 








n: 'JO 



5 w 



EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 89 

turret guns. At 11.50 began transferring prisoners to the St. 
Louis in obedience to signals. At noon fired a salute of twenty- 
one guns in company with the other ships in honor of the day. 
At end of watch lying to transferring prisoners. Two British 
and one Austrian vessel lying to off the entrance to the harbor. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Clear and warm. Gentle to moderate 
breezes from E., hauling to S. E. by E. Barometer falling. 
Drifting and keeping off entrance to harbor. Finished transfer- 
ring prisoners to St. Louis, having transferred two hundred and 
nine men and six officers. Two English and one Austrian men- 
of-war close in near Morro. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Cloudy weather; pleasant; stiff breeze from 
S. E. and E. S. E. Land breeze made last hour from north. At 
4.30 mustered at quarters. Loaded 8-inch guqs. English and 
Austrian men-of-war left to the southward and westward. Massa- 
chusetts arrived from eastward and was assigned Brooklyn's sta- 
tion. Hoisted in steam launch. Moon rose at 7.45. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Cloudy and pleasant. Light airs to 
gentle breezes from the Nd. and Wd. On station to the Sd. and 
Ed. of Morro. Flagship close inshore. Observed several large 
fires on mountain and hill-tops to the Nd. and Ed. of Santiago, 
apparently signal fires. Went to general quarters at 11.30 be- 
cause of the alarm signal for enemy's ships approaching being 
given by the Massachusetts and Texas firing at some object 
inside entrance. East and west shore batteries and mortar bat- 
tery returned fire. At 11.58 an 8-inch mortar shell struck the 
ship aft, landing on the flash plate, starboard side, penetrating 
the main deck, going through the cabin pantry and striking the 
angle of beam at frame No. 77, where it exploded with great 
effect, wrecking the battle hatch cover leading down to the after 
orlop, and making holes in cabin and stateroom bulkheads in 
vicinity and bending in cabin bulkhead to starboard of fore and 
aft line. 

Tuesday, July 5, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Generally clear and pleasant. 
Bright moonlight. Light breeze from north. Secured battery at 
12.25. Maintaining station on blockade. At end of watch 
Morro bearing N. W. Baled water out of Paymaster's store- 
room ; ran in through fire-hose. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Fair and warm. Light variable breezes. Drift- 
ing and working engines occasionally to hold blockading station. 
At end of watch Morro light bore N. W. ^ N. and Aguadores 
N. % E. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Clear and warm. Gentle breeze from 



9 o 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



S. E. and S. E. by S. Barometer rising slowly. First part of 
watch, mail to Celtic. At 9.30 went to quarters for muster and 
exercised at passing the range and infantry. Started fires under 
boiler F. Frank Rench, F. 1 c, reported expiration of his 
enlistment. C. M. Rowland, F. 1 c, rating changed to boiler- 
maker. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Partially clear, pleasant. Gentle to 
moderate S. E. breezes. Smooth sea. Lying near wrecks of 
Maria Teresa and Oquendo. Flagship close to them with officers 
and boats' crews aboard. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Generally clear and pleasant. Threatening at 
times. Light breeze from S. E. shifting to N. E. last hour. 
At 4.30 mustered at quarters. Lying off the wrecks of the Maria 
Teresa and the Almirante Oquendo. About 5 started to regain 
station on blockade. The flagship and the Texas and the Oregon 
returned to station about 7. Smooth sea; long swell from S. E. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Fair and pleasant. Light breezes from 
N. N. E. On blockade station using engines to keep position. 



Sunday, July 10, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Fair and pleasant. Misty over 
the land. Fight breezes from N. N. W. On blockade, Agua- 
dores bearing N. % W. ; at end of watch, Morro not visible. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Clear and pleasant. Light to gentle breezes 
from N. W. by N. Barometer rising. St. Paul arrived from 
eastward. First part of watch on blockading station, latter part 
to westward near the Brooklyn. 

8 \.m. to Meridian. — Clear and pleasant. Sea breeze made 
about 9 from E. S. F., increasing to moderate force end of watch. 
.Mustered at quarters at 9.30. J. B. Hedenger, Sea., reported 
the expiration of his enlistment. Ran over toward Brooklyn and 
sent boat for mail. Afterward, in obedience to signal, Texas 
and this ship accompanied Brooklyn to position off Aguadores. 
Texas stood again to westward, returning at end of watch. Scor- 
pion arrived from eastward. Vesuvius stood to eastward. Trans- 
ferred fohn Koehler, App., 2 c, and E. E. Comstock, App., 2 c, 
to U. S. S. Hornet, sending them to Scorpion for passage. 
Brooklyn stood to S. E. about 11.30 in chase of steamer flying 
Norwegian flag and standing to eastward. At 11.45 she fired a 
blank charge. She was near steamer at end of watch, distant 
about three miles from this ship. 

Meridian to 4 p.m.— Cloudy and pleasant. Moderate breezes 
limn E. by S. Smooth sea. At 2.30 stood to the eastward and 
later ran in to Siboney Harbor, where put a sick man, A. Paren- 




E w 



EXTRACTS FROM THE LOG OF THE INDIANA 93 

teau, Sea., on board the ambulance ship Solace. Received 
papers, also two men — James Kelley, S. C. i c, and T. Jin- 
tara, cabin steward — by transfer from the St. Paul. Found the 
Helena and Machias in the harbor assisting in landing soldiers 
from several transports recently arrived. Left the harbor at 3.45 
in obedience to signal from the Brooklyn to come within hail 
and stood westward for the Brooklyn. 

4 to 8 p.m.— Cloudy and threatening with passing showers. 
Light breezes from Nd. and Ed. shifting to N. N. W. last hour. 
Received a message by megaphone from the Brooklyn that that 
ship would begin a bombardment of the city, firing a gun every 
two minutes for an hour; that the Texas and then the Indiana 
would follow. The town bearing north a little west. The 
Brooklyn began the bombardment at 4.45. Took station astern 
of the Texas. At 5.10 cleared ship for action ; about 5.30 went 
to general quarters. At 5.30 began firing with stbd. after 8-inch 
turret. Fired four shots from each stbd. 8-inch turret. The two 
13-inch turrets were trained aport. Range nine thousand yards. 
Ship's position, Morro bearing N. N. W. mag. distant six thou- 
sand to seven thousand yards. Fired in direction N. by W. ]/o. 
W. to N. by VV. i/± W. Ceased firing after the eight shots and 
awaited orders. Lying to rest of watch. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Cloudy and threatening rain. Light 
breezes and airs from north. At 8.30 took position on blockade, 
.Morro bearing north, distant three miles, in obedience to signal 
from the Brooklyn. The New York came from the eastward 
about 10.15 an( l joined the blockade. Ship drifting on station. 



Monday, July ii, 1898 

Commences and until 4 a.m. — Partly cloudy and pleasant. 
Light airs to breezes from N. N. E. Barometer falling. Using 
engines to keep blockading station. Morro bearing north. 

4 to 8 a.m. — Clear to cloudy. Squall threatening from south- 
ward. Light breeze between north and N. E. Keeping block- 
ading station, Morro bearing about north. Tested whistle and 
siren. 

8 a.m. to Meridian. — Generally clear, hot and oppressive. 
Light airs and breezes from the eastward. At 8.20 took station 
on blockade three miles south of Morro, in obedience to signal 
from the Brooklyn at 8.10. At 9.45 observed a tug and lighter 
moving about in the entrance to harbor beyond Morro. Stood 
over to the Ed. and Nd. and reported this fact to the flagship 
New York. At to made sick report 9 to flagship. At 10.09 
made G. S. 3093. Received a mail from the United States at 



94 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

10.30 from the Suwanee. At 10.20 made all preparations for 
bombardment of Santiago with 8-inch guns, the flagship and 
Brooklyn already having fired a few shots. At n began firing 
with 8-inch guns, the ship lying very close to shore off east end 
of railway bridge; port battery, 8-inch guns engaged; stream 
anchor down with wire hawser bent to it. At noon still firing. 

Meridian to 4 p.m. — Rainy, with heavy rain and wind squall 
last hour. Light to moderate breezes from Sd. and Wd. Ceased 
firing at 12.50, hove up anchor and stood offshore. Expended 
thirty-seven 8-inch shells. The Yale and Columbia joined the 
flagship. The Commander-in-Chief visited the Yale. Lying to 
to the eastward of Aguadores at end of watch. 

4 to 8 p.m. — Cloudy, with frequent rain squalls. Light breezes 
from E. N. E. and east. Drifting during watch. Message sig- 
nals as per record book. About 7.30 the Vesuvius and Machias 
joined the flagship and the Brooklyn and Texas stood to the 
southward. 

8 p.m. to Midnight. — Overcast, cloudy, and rainy, with 
thunder and lightning. Light variable airs to gentle breezes. 
Barometer unsteady. Drifting throughout watch. 



CHAPTER V 



THE GUN-FIRE 



The Indiana's Hail of Death-dealing Metal on Enemy's Forts and Ships. 
Report of the Ship's Ordnance Officer to the Bureau of Ordnance, of 
Ammunition expended in the Several Actions of the War. 

This chapter gives the substantial parts of the report made by 
the Ordnance Officer of the Indiana, to the Commanding Officer 
of the ship, and by him sent through official channels to the 
Bureau of Ordnance, Navy Department, showing the amount of 
ammunition expended by the battleship in the several actions 
of the war. This is the record of one ship, but one that poured 
such a hail of metal on the enemy, both at Santiago and else- 
where, as to cause wonder and astonishment from the spectators 
and those who have studied the matter since the close of active 
hostilities. 

The report was made in accordance with instructions from the 
Bureau of Ordnance, requiring a report from each ship of the 
fleet, which should show not only the amount of ammunition 
used, but also the rapidity of fire, and how well the guns stood 
the tests of actual service. Extracts from the report follow : 

Engagement with the batteries at San Juan, Puerto Rico, May 
12, 1898. Range, 4,000 to 1,400 yards. 

The action lasted about two hours and fifty minutes. Smoke 
interfered considerably, especially during the first countermarch, 
when the rapid-fire battery was in action, and the fire of the guns 
was frequently masked by the New York getting on our engaged 
side. The fire was concentrated principally on the Morro, from 
which distance was measured by sextant and stadimeter, the 
height of the light being known. The shooting during the first 
round was poor, the shots falling short; after that the practice 

7 



g8 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

was excellent, though some of the shots went over and fell in the 
city. No attempt was made to take intervals between shots. . . . 

We have learned from the newspapers and from other sources 
that a number of our shells failed to explode. Reports as to the 
damage done are conflicting, but probably was not very great, 
as the enemy continued to fire nearly all his guns as long as we 
were in range. 

Number of shots fired from each gun or turret and kind of 
ammunition used : — 

13-inch turrets: forward, common shell with full 
charges 4 

13-inch turrets : aft, common shell with full charges 6 

Total 13-inch 10 

8-inch turrets : starboard, forward, common shell with 
full charges 8 

8-inch turrets : starboard, after, common shell with 
full charges 10 

8-inch turrets : port, after, common shell with full 
charges 1 

Total 8-inch 19 

6-inch guns, starboard battery, common shell with full 

charges -9 

6-pounders, starboard battery, armor-piercing and 

common shell 9 2 

1 -pounder top guns, common shell 37 

Total number of shots fired 187 

There were a number of annoying accidents to parts of the 
guns of the batteries, but as soon as these were ascertained by 
actual service (this being the first battle action the ship had had) 
they were overhauled and practically remedied. 

Engagement with batteries at entrance to harbor of Santiago 
ile Cuba, June 22, 189S. Range, 4,000 to 1,500 yards. 

Action lasted about an hour. Passed slowly across range 
fn.m east to west, firing at eastern battery, the Morro, and west 
battery in succession. The practice was fair. There was a small 
explosion in the western battery, caused by one of our shells. 
No great harm was done to the enemy's earthworks, though after 
the first few minutes his fire perceptibly slackened and later 
d altogether. He returned to his guns, however, as we 
were drawing off and gave us a few parting shots. 



THE GUN-FIRE 99 

Number of shots fired from each gun or turret and kind of 
ammunition used : — 

13-inch turrets : forward, common shell, full charges 1 

after, " " 2 

Total 13-inch 3 

8-inch turrets : forward, starboard, common shell, full 
charges 6 

8-inch turrets : after, starboard, common shell, full 
charges 4 

Total 8-inch 10 

6-inch guns : starboard, common shell, full charges 11 
6 pounder guns : starboard battery, A. P. and com- 
mon shell 27 

Total number of shots fired 51 

The ship's battery worked perfectly, with the exception of two 
minor troubles with the 13-inch guns. 

Engagements with batteries at entrance to harbor of Santiago 
de Cuba, July 2, 1898. Range, 4,000 to 1,400 yards. 

Number of shots fired from each gun or turret and kind of 
ammunition used : — 
13-inch turrets : forward, common shell, full charges 6 
after, " " n 

Total 13-inch 17 

8-inch turrets : forward, starboard, common shell, full 
charges 9 

8-inch turrets : forward, port, common shell, full 
charges 23 

S-inch turrets: after, starboard, common shell, full 
charges 17 

8-inch turrets : after, port, common shell, full charges 10 

Total 8-inch 59 

6-inch guns, starboard battery 21 

" " port " 33 

Total 6-inch 54 

6-pounders, both batteries, A. P. and common shell. 443 

Total number of shots fired 573 



100 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Engaged about one hour and fifty minutes, stopping occa- 
sionally to allow smoke to clear away. Firing at eastern battery 
and Punta Gorda batteries. The practice was excellent, one gun 
at eastern battery being dismounted by a 13-inch shell, and the 
men driven from the others by the fire of the 6-pounders. . . . 



Engagement with Admiral Cervera's squadron, July 3, 1898. 
Range from 4,300 to 2,800 yards. 

Number of shots fired from each gun or turret and kind of 
ammunition used : — 

13-inch turrets: forward, common shell, re- 
duced charges 12 

13-inch turrets : after, common shell, reduced 
charges 1 

Total 13-inch 13 

8-inch turrets : forward, starboard, common 

shell, full charges 22 

8-inch turrets : after, starboard, common shell, 

full charges 39 

Total 8-inch 61 

6-inch guns, starboard battery, common shell, 

, full charges 33 

6-pounder guns, starboard battery, A. P. and 

common shell i>7 2 4 

6-pounder guns, port battery, A. P. and common 

shell 20 

Total 6-pounder i>744 

1 -pounder top guns, common shell .... 25 

Total number of shots fired 1,876 

Engaged about one hour and twenty minutes, during the first 
thirty-five minutes of which, or until the Maria Teresa and 
Oquendo were beached, the firing was very rapid and continu- 
ous. Smoke from the 6-pounders interfered considerably with 
the sighting of the 8-inch guns. Each of the enemy's ships was 
engaged as she left the entrance, but as they passed to the west- 
ward our fire was concentrated upon the two rear ships, the 
Teresa and Oquendo, and upon the destroyers Furor and Pluton. 
A number of our large-calibre shells were seen to take effect, and 




c4 O 



THE GUN-FIRE 



IO3 



they were soon set on fire, blown up, or sunk. The ranges were 
taken from the military top by stadi meter and sextant, and were 
quite accurate, as there was very little wild shooting, and shot 
after shot was seen to take effect on the enemy's ships. The 
guns, mounts, and fittings worked perfectly. It will be noted 
that reduced charges only were used in the 13-inch guns, and no 
trouble was experienced with gas check-pads [which had given 
trouble before with full charges]. 



Bombardment of the city of Santiago de Cuba from Agua- 
dores, July 10 and 11, 1898. Distance, 8,000 to 9,000 yards. 

July 10th, number of shots fired from each gun or turret and 
kind of ammunition used : — 

8-inch guns, starboard after turret, common shell, full 
charges 4 

8-inch guns, starboard forward turret, common shell, 
full charges 4 

Total number of shots fired on July 10th ... 8 

July nth, port after turret, same ammunition as July 
10th 22 

July nth, port forward turret, same ammunition as 
July 10th 15 

Total number of shots fired on July nth . . . 37 

Total number of shots fired on both days ... 45 

The bombardment was deliberate, the idea being to fire one 
8-inch shell from the ship every two minutes; the bearing and 
distance of the city were known, and a range was selected on 
shore over which our gun-pointers were directed to fire. The 
13-inch guns were trained to the side opposite the one engaged, 
in order to list the ship and lessen the strain on the 8-inch 
mounts. The fire was very effective, though some of the shells 
failed to burst, a number of houses being destroyed. 

Respectfully, 

S. P. Comly, 

Lieut, and Ordnance Officer, 
The Commanding Officer. 



104 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



Copy of Indorsement by the Commanding Officer, 
August 20, 1898. to Report of Expenditure of 
Ammunition to Bureau of Ordnance 

From my position on the bridge, assisted by the Signal Officer, 
Lieutenant Dawson, U.S.M.C, and with the Navigator, Lieu- 
tenant Comly, directly under me in the conning tower, and a 
young officer, Cadet Chase, thoroughly trained in taking ranges 
in the top, I have been able to form a good estimate of our firing 
in all the engagements the ship has been in. The result of my 
observation is satisfactory for all of these fights, but in the affair 
of July 2d, with the batteries, and the action of July 3d, with 
Cervera's squadron, I have never known such accuracy and rapid- 
ity of fire. It will be noted that the firing, which lasted about 
one hour and fifty minutes, was principally concentrated in the 
first forty minutes, and the fire during that period even was much 
interrupted by smoke. During the times of uninterrupted fire 
ninety shots per minute were delivered, and the accuracy during 
these periods was remarkable, although the Oquendo and Teresa 
received the bulk of our most destructive fire. The Vizcaya in 
the initial stage of the action received considerable damage from 
.the Indiana. 

H. C. Taylor, 

Captain U. S. Navy, Commanding. 



CHAPTER VI 

THE MARINE GUARD 

The Story of the Indiana's Marines in Battle. Report to the Colonel Com- 
mandant, U. S. Marine Corps. 

U. S. S. Indiana, First Rate, 
Off Tompkinsville, September i, 1898. 

Sir: In accordance with the request contained in the letter of 
the Colonel Commandant, U. S. Marine Corps, under date of 
August 9th, I have the honor to submit the following report : 

The marines of this ship are stationed for battle as follows : 
24 manning port 6-pounder rapid-fire < guns on superstructure 
deck; 20 in powder division passing rapid-fire ammunition: 
2 orderlies to commanding officer; 1 signal man; 2 orderlies 
passing ranges on orlop deck; 1 in central telephone station; 
2 in top, assisting in range finding and indicating; 8 on search- 
lights (at night) ; 15 in reserve as riflemen, and as supports and 
reserves for rapid-fire guns. 

First Lieutenant W. C. Dawson is stationed on the bridge with 
the Commanding Officer, acting as Signal Officer. 

By direction of the Commanding Officer, I have charge of all 
the rapid-fire guns on the superstructure and bridge-decks with 
the exception of two, making in all sixteen guns. 

The marines took part in all the engagements in which the 
ship participated. . . . The bombardments of the city of San- 
tiago de Cuba were carried on by the great guns, and the marines 
took no part in the firing. In all the picket boats on duty at the 
mouth of Santiago Harbor there were detachments of marines. 

Practically, since a day or two after the destruction of the 
Maine, this 'ship has been on a war basis, and all precautions 
observed in time of war have been carried out. In all of the 



106 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

wearing and wearying watch duty, all war work both in prepara- 
tion for and during actual warfare, the marines willingly and 
cheerfully took part, performing the many duties required of 
them so well that, during the time of preparation and war, there 
were only two cases of dereliction of duty; and at all times 
meeting with the approval and gratification of the Commanding 
Officer, who has stated to me that he regarded our men as the 
best in the squadron. 

I cannot mention specific cases of duty performed in a mark- 
edly superior manner when all did so well. 

On July 2d, during the attack on the forts at Santiago, the 
marines did all the firing at the eastern battery and the Morro. 
This firing was so accurate and controlled as to draw from the 
Commanding Officer and the officers of other ships strong expres- 
sions of admiration and approval. For three days previous to 
this fight all of the marines, except the orderlies and non-com- 
missioned officers, were with the crew coaling ship, only com- 
pleting the work at midnight on the ist of July in time to get 
under way, leave Guantanamo Bay, and reach Santiago in the 
early morning, to go into action without time to wash the coal 
dust off their persons. They went into the fight with such spirit 
and showed such qualities of discipline and precision as to draw 
forth a special order from the Commanding Officer commending 
the seamen and marines for their fine work. 

On this occasion the marines fired 570 shots with splendid 
accuracy. 

On the occasion of the destruction of Cervera's fleet the rapid- 
fire battery of this ship fired 1,744 shots in about 65 minutes. 
Of this number 1,534 were fired by the guns under my charge, 
a little more than a third of this number being fired by the 
marines. 

While the marines are stationed at the port battery, and the 
starboard battery was engaged on that occasion, the fire was so 
rapid and sustained, the shock of explosion and the blinding 
smoke from the 8-inch and 6-inch guns were so great, that it was 
necessary frequently to relieve the crews of the starboard battery 
with the marines from the port. The only trouble experienced 
at that time was the difficulty of keeping the men not actually 




CAPTAIN LITTLETON \V. T. WALLER, COMMANDING MARINE 
GUARD OF THE INDIANA. CAPTURES TWO PRIZES 



THE MARINE GUARD IO9 

engaged under cover ; they were constantly crowding to the guns, 
waiting for a chance to take part in the action. 

The condition of the Oquendo and the Teresa after the action, 
together with the rapid destruction of the torpedo-boat destroy- 
ers, attests to the accuracy of the fire of the rapid-fire batteries. 
The statement made in Norfolk, by Captain Conchas of the 
Teresa, to the effect that he could not keep his men at the guns 
or send messages and orders on account of the terrible fire from 
the rapid-fire guns of the three eastern ships of the squadron is 
a further proof of the accuracy and rapidity of the fire of these 
guns. 

Captain Conchas stated, in conversation with civilians, that 
his ship was destroyed by the fire from the three first ships a few 
minutes after leaving the channel and turning to the westward. 

As I have previously stated, I cannot mention any special in- 
stances of extraordinary conduct on the part of the men during 
the several engagements in which they participated ; they have 
at all times and under all circumstances performed their duties 
well and faithfully, meeting with the approval of all. 

In the case of Lieutenant Dawson I cannot speak of his con- 
duct during any of the actions from personal observation, as he 
was on the bridge with the Commanding Officer. 

In all the preliminaries and preparations for war, Mr. Dawson 
has been responsible and indefatigable in the discharge of his 
duties. I cannot speak with too much praise of his capacity 
and interest. 

I must leave to my seniors to say whether or not I performed 
my duties satisfactorily and well. 

Very respectfully, 

L. W. T. Waller, 

Captain U. S. M. C, Commanding Marines. 

The Colonel Commandant, U. S. Marine Corps, 
Washington, D. C. 



Captain Taylor, commanding the Indiana, in a letter to the 
Navy Department accompanying his indorsement of the fore- 
going report, suggested that a similar report be obtained from 



1IC THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

each division of the ship, each of which did its war duty equally 
well and creditably. In his indorsement Captain Taylor said : 

' The conduct of the marines equalled in excellence that of 
the other divisions of the ship. All divisions of the ship, includ- 
ing marines, behaved admirably in all the various engagements 
of the war. 

" In the destruction of Cervera's fleet the marines fired about 
five hundred shots from the secondary battery of the ship, about 
twelve hundred being fired by the seamen division. The smaller 
number fired by the marines was caused by their having the port 
battery, while the starboard was engaged. The accuracy of the 
6-pcunders' fire both from the seamen and the marines was' ex- 
ceptionally good. 

" With reference to the marine officers of the Indiana, their 
conduct was equally deserving high praise and commendation 
with the other officers of the ship." 



CHAPTER VII 

STORY OF THE PUNCH BOWL 

How it Obtained its Battle Scar. Also, Details of the Havoc caused by 
the Explosion of One 8-inch Shell from a Spanish Mortar Battery. 

Any event transpiring before Santiago on July 2d or 4th was 
practically overshadowed by the great battle of July 3d, and in 
this way some interesting events taking place on those days have 
been almost unknown to the public. One of the most interest- 
ing and exciting things which took place in the war history of 
the battleship Indiana occurred on the 4th of July, five minutes 
before midnight. The ship's company had settled down into 
normal routine of action and feeling after the stirring events of 
the preceding day, and the thought prevailed that, for us at least, 
the Avar was over. But it proved otherwise, and we were yet to 
receive our greatest damage at the hands of the enemy. 

When Admiral Cervera's fleet came out, the Reina Mercedes, 
a second-class cruiser, had remained behind. This, however, 
did not cause surprise or anxiety to the American officers, as she 
was known to be in poor condition, and it was supposed she had 
remained in the harbor for this reason. But on the night of 
July 4th at midnight this ship undertook to come out. Opinion 
seems to be divided as to whether her officers intended sinking 
her in the channel in imitation of Hobson's feat, or making an 
effort to reach the open sea and escape and thus surpass Admiral 
Cervera. Whichever plan was contemplated, the undertaking 
was most hazardous. There had been no relaxation of vigilance 
upon the part of the American ships, and at this particular hour 
the battleship Massachusetts was lying close in to the entrance 
to the harbor with her searchlights playing up the channel. 

The dare of the searchlight of a modern man-of-war is of won- 



112 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

derful penetrating power, and shines like a glowing bar of sun- 
light reaching out through the darkness and making an avenue 
of light miles in length. 

Suddenly into this beam of light came the black, sinister form 
of a warship. Just a moment to focus strained vision and make 
sure and the alarm is given, and the men of the Massachusetts 
tumble out of their bunks and hammocks and run to their guns, 
rubbing sleep from their eyes as they go. Now be it remembered 
that the Massachusetts had not been present at the destruction 
of the fleet on the day previous, through no fault but the fortunes 
of war which had put her at Guantanamo coaling ship at the 
critical hour ; therefore when an opportunity did come to engage 
the enemy she went at the work with a double measure of ear- 
nestness as if to get the satisfaction denied her on the day before. 
Small guns flashed spitefully, and great guns roared and sent vol- 
umes of dull red flames, wreathed in a drapery of smoke, leaping 
from their muzzles. 

The hills sent back the crack and roar of the guns, until it 
seemed that the very elements were warring along the mountain 
tops and through the valleys below. The pitiless and unsleeping 
searchlight held the doomed Mercedes within a shining circle 
alive with flying projectiles, many of which were tearing and 
penetrating her sides. 

All that I have described took place within a very short space 
of time. As soon as the firing began, Captain Taylor decided 
that the Indiana, which was lying about two miles southeast of 
the Morro, should go in and take such part in the action as 
might be necessary or possible. It was not a question of being 
willing to engage in a sea-fight at night, but altogether whether 
the Massachusetts would have completed the job in even the few 
minutes which must intervene before we could get in position 
where our guns would bear in the channel. And this is really 
what happened. When we got near the Massachusetts we found 
that she had sunk the Reina Mercedes, only the spars and smoke- 
pipe of that vessel being above the waters of the channel. 

And now for the kernel of my story. While the Massachusetts 
had been firing on the Mercedes, that ship had made but feeble 
effort to reply, but the guns of the Socapa Battery, on the west 




y -5 



STORY OF THE PUNCH BOWL II5 

bank of the harbor entrance, had been firing with a briskness 
unusual for them. Their gunners were aiming at the Massachu- 
setts, and of course they did not strike her; but to our great sur- 
prise, and no doubt to their own, one of their 8-inch mortar 
shells fell plump upon our quarter-deck. It passed through the 
heavy oaken deck, covered as it was with an iron flash plate, and 
reaching the berth-deck exploded, flying into a thousand frag- 
ments. The noise of the explosion was deafening and the force 
incredible. The exact point where the explosion took place was 
just outside the cabin pantry-door, and the destructive force of 
the explosion extended to the entire cabin and ward-room quar- 
ters. Hatch covers were riddled by flying fragments, ladders 
were converted into kindling wood, bulkheads for a distance of 
fifty feet were torn and bent, furniture was broken, bookcases 
overturned, china and glassware smashed and lights extinguished. 
As the ship's company was at general quarters, none of the officers 
were in their rooms at the time, which was a most fortunate cir- 
cumstance, as otherwise some of them would inevitably have been 
killed or seriously injured. The only person near the shell when 
it exploded was an apprentice boy — Schoepke — who had gone 
into that compartment on an errand for one of the officers just 
before the water-tight doors were closed, and had found his way 
barred as he sought to return. He was about fifty feet distant 
from the shell when it exploded, and was thrown down and 
stunned, but not seriously injured. The compartment in which 
the explosion occurred was immediately filled with a dense and 
suffocating smoke, and small fires were started in several rooms. 
It was but the work of a minute to flood the rooms with water 
and put out every spark of fire. This was all done quietly and 
without the least suggestion of excitement or demoralization, 
although the forts were still firing. 

After finding that the Massachusetts had done her work so 
effectively, the Indiana drew off to her original position without 
having fired a single gun. When retreat from quarters was 
sounded we (the officers) went to our rooms, where a sorry spec- 
tacle met our gaze. Broken glass, picture frames, ornaments, 
books, clothing, caps, shoes, etc., were heaped indiscriminately 
on the floor in about four inches of water. Much of the re- 



I 1 6 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

mainder of the night was spent in trying to bring some degree 
of order out of this terrible chaos. When day dawned and a 
closer inspection of the damage done was possible, it was found 
that a fragment of the shell weighing about two pounds had 
penetrated the side of one of the oaken chests containing the 
silverware given the ship by the State of Indiana and dented the 
punch bowl. 

The dented punch bowl is destined to occupy a place of honor 
in the renovated cabin of the Commanding Officer of the ship, 
fully marked that future beholders may readily see its signifi- 
cance as a relic of war. 

Weeks and months have passed since our experience with this 
Spanish shell, during most of which time the work of repairing 
damage done has been going forward, and there now remains 
only inconspicuous traces of the unwelcome visitor. After wit- 
nessing the havoc wrought by this one shell, weighing about two 
hundred and fifty pounds, we could realize more forcibly the 
awful experiences of the Spanish ships, overwhelmed as they 
were by hundreds of exploding shells of all sizes. 



CHAPTER VIII 

THE SHIP'S COMPANY AND PRIZES OF WAR 

List of the Officers, Crew, and Marines on Board the United States Battle- 
ship Indiana at the Time of the Action of July 3, 1898, off Santiago 
de Cuba, resulting in the Destruction of the Spanish Squadron, com- 
posed of the Infanta Maria Teresa (flagship), Almirante Oquendo, Viz- 
caya, Cristobal Colon, Pluton, and Furor. Also, the Prize Vessels in 
whose Capture the Indiana was Specially Concerned. The War Vol- 
unteers. 

Officers 

Captain. — Henry Clay Taylor. 

Lieutenant-Commander. — John Augustus Rodgers. 

Lieutenants. — Samuel Pancoast Comly, Richard Henderson, 
Roy Campbell Smith, Frederick Lincoln Chapin. 

Lieutenants, Junior Grade. — Benton Clark Decker, Thomas 
Washington. 

Ensigns. — Percy Napier Olmsted, William Reynolds Cush- 
man. 

Naval Cadets.— Gilbert Chase, Arthur St. Clair Smith, Walter 
Maxwell Falconer, Willis McDowell, Charles Truesdale Owens, 
Ernest Clinton Keenan, Cyrus Willard Cole, Herbert Heard 
Evans, Frank Pinckney Helm, Edgar Brown Larimer, Charles 
Edwin Morgan, Samuel Brown Thomas, Daniel Pratt Mannix. 

Surgeon. — Nelson MacPherson Ferebee. 

Assistant Surgeon. — George Dayton Costigan. 

Paymaster. — Reah Frazer. 

Chief Engineer. — George Cowie. 

Passed Assistant Engineers.— Harry Hall, Robert Salmond 
Talbot, Carl Melville Green. 



120 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Assistant Engineers. — Roscoe Charles Moody, Daniel Mershon 
Garrison. 

Chaplain. — William Gilbert Cassard. 

Captain, United States Marine Corps. — Littleton Waller Taze- 
well Waller. 

First Lieutenant, United States Marine Corps. — William 
Charles Dawson. 

Pay Clerk. — John Wright Caum. 

Boatswain. — James Dowling. 

Gunner. — George Lincoln Mallery. 

Acting Carpenter. — George William Alexander Bailey. 

Enlisted Men 

Chief Master-at-Arms. — Richard Joseph Keating. 

Chief Boatswain's Mate. — Michael Corlos. 

Chief Gunner's Mate. — Thomas Stockdale Aveson. 

Chief Quartermaster. — Charles Eble. 

Chief Machinists. — William King McCall, Emmanuel Salva- 
tor, James Kavanagh, Robert Hilldof Lawson, James White. 

Chief Carpenter's Mate. — Henry James Wirtz. 

Chief Yeomen. — Francis Hamilton, Edward Roche Manley, 
Charles Elmer Murray, William Martin Gorham. 

Apothecary. — Charles Ellis Alexander. 

Master-at-Arms, First Class. — Frank John Allen. 

Boatswain's Mates, First Class. — Anton Tiedemann, John Cos- 
tin, Frank Norris, Samuel Canavan. 

Gunner's Mates, First Class. — Ernest Schuldt, Harry Dahis, 
Frank Daily, George Alexander Stevens, Charles Alfred Good- 
win, Ulysses Grant Chipman, Edward Murphy, Joseph Koch. 

(lunner's Captain, First Class. — Albert Julius Svensson. 

Machinists, First Class. — Bernard Christiansen, Philip Rack, 
William James Lee, James Phillip Winkle, Charles William 
Henry Ehler. 

Boilermakers. — William Francis Creswell, Michael Joseph 
Miller, John Wesley Glover, Peter Anderson. 

Blacksmiths. — Stephen Raybold, Carl Frederick Richardson, 
Lawrence Mansen. 



THE SHIP'S COMPANY AND PRIZES OF WAR 121 

Plumber and Fitter. — Timothy Francis Mitchell. 

Sailmaker's Mate. — James Johnson. 

Water Tenders. — Carl Dahl, Michael Horgan, Thomas Holt, 
Tohn Geary, Thomas Clancy, James Toole. 

Yeoman, First Class. — Henry Hayman. 

Master-at-Arms, Second Class. — Charles Henry Pratt. 

Boatswain's Mates, Second Class. — Charles Forster, Charles 
Bauer, George Winfield Demarest. 

Gunner's Mates, Second Class. — Robert Patterson, Robert 
Beatty, Sydney William Garrett, Charles August Holmberg, 
Henry Downey, John Laurell, William Detmers, William Lind- 
ley Fieldhouse. 

Quartermasters, Second Class. — Charles Lund, James Golden. 

Machinists, Second Class. — DeWitt Clinton Dixson, Luke 
Francis Brennan, William Herzberg, William Christie Leonard, 
Clifford Cabell Johnston, Joseph Augustus Nangler, Felix John 
O'Malley, Julius Poulson, Matthias August Thormahlen, Ben- 
jamin Franklin Wallace, Frank Henry Zinke. 

Oilers. — Michael Haley, John Lyons, Robert Quinn, Alfred 
Pfeiffer, John Sullivan, William McLean, Ludwig Wilhelm Dahl, 
Ellwood Mason Rowland. 

Yeoman, Second Class. — Howard Asa Kimball. 

Master-at-Arms, Third Class. — James Joseph Generson. 

Coxswains (Steam Launch). — Adolf Holm, Magnus Carlsson. 

Coxswains. — John Conrad Lindberg, James Parks, Philip Sheri- 
dan, Karl Forsborn, Bernt Wallentin Lind, Gustav Sauf, William 
Burke, Carl Oskar Magnussen, John Stephen Daley, Arnold Sauer. 

Gunner's Mates, Third Class. — Alexander Coffey, Pitter Sjor- 
gren, Michael Joseph Roskey, Henry Tobina, Frank Danks, 
Andrew Ludwigson, John Alvin Dry, John Nordstrom. 

Quartermasters, Third Class. — William Dobito Gunn, Arthur 
Louis Stehle. 

Carpenter's Mate, Third Class. — Arthur Frank Gentsch. 

Painters. — William Joseph Prettyman, Joseph Kearney, Hans 
Schroeder, Samuel Joseph Francis Bradley. 

Seamen. — Thomas McMahon, Louis Hansen, John Dunn, Wil- 
liam Knut Armstrong, Charles Edward Thomas, James Andrew 
Coffin, William Walker, John Quevedo, Frank Plotos, Jens Ludal 



122 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Walle, Edwaxd Frank Jackson, Frodig Forsborn, Hjalmar Nord- 
strom, Anders Henry Jonsson, George Monroe Wells, John Alex 
Haapanen, Frnest Wallace Larkin, Lewis Sequeland, James 
Joseph Ayhvard, Edward Albert Evers, James Richard Mendels- 
sohn, Earle Wayne Redman, Conrad Johnson, Vincent Tobin, 
Joseph Baker Hedenger, Gustav Svendson, Edward Brodd, Abra- 
ham Tabler Angell, Nikla Bendixsen, Frank Johnsen, Frank 
Keeler, Alfin Albert Green, Lars Mandipis Torkelson, Halfden 
Bernard* Hansen, Michael Farrell, John Bently, Otto Andresen, 
Ole Olsen, John Michel Niles, Antoni Michell, Otto Lehman, 
Bert Vernon, Jakob Oorburg, William Henry Humphrey, John 
Evans, Jakob Halvorsen, Erick Lindstrom, John Alexsanter 
Lehtonen, Frank Dressier, George Washington Myers, John 
Warden Taylor, Charles Von Warren, Elmer Edward Groff, Jesse 
Alexander Parenteau, Edgar Weems Smith, Henry Jones, Harry 
Erben Campbell, Peter John Boyesen, Carl Fogelberg, Charles 
Thomas Brookman, James Kelly, Harry Augustus Williams, Carl 
Halvorsen, Jens Berggreen, Edward Livingston Gill, William 
Herlitz, Charles Fred Hubert, Jason Wright Jones, Charles 
Johnsen, Olaf Lindseth. 

Seaman, Captain of Hold. — Charles Perkins. 

Apprentices, First Class. — John Sperle, Jr., Christopher 
Emold, Joseph Arthur Michael Pippin, Duke B. Starr, Charles 
Frank Weber, Alfred Franklin Kelly, William Clarence Vail, 
William Kramer, John Lewis Fitch, .Roy Stewart Ranier, Wil- 
liam Howard Leitch, Edward Kendrick Dean, Martin Aloysius 
Owens, Joseph Dana Lindsay, Clifford Hunter Robb, Leroy 
Rodd, Catesby Jones, Michael John Braughel, Elmer Alexander 
Dey, George Joseph Hartman, Calvin Mengle, James Robert 
Crawford, Jesse Franke Spink, Vincent De Paul Garrigan, 
Charles Stephen Schopke, Dennis Curtin, Albert Rudolph Ribas, 
Harry Buckley Boies, Thomas Francis Burns, George Stanley 
Bergantz, David St. John Greer, Thomas Richard Sandidge, 
Duncan Herbert Sell. 

Firemen, First Class. — James Monahan, James Reed, William 
Knice, Ole P.ergstrom Mortensen, Gust Tireen, Robert John 
Alford, Frank Bench, James Michael McCann, William Garrett 
Moore, Richard Finn, Carl Christian Jensen, Henry Hubert 




ASSISTANT ENGINEER GARRISON INTERESTS TWO OF THE 
SHIP'S MASCOTS WHILE THE CHAPLAIN TAKES A " SNAP " 
-• Blanco," the kitten, was gathered np by the Chaplain at Key West, early in the 
campaign. He purchased this then most forlorn bit of cathood of a small boy for 
twX five -nts During the progress of the war, Blanco thrived and grew fat and 
happy. During the battle at Santiago she secreted herself in the brig. 

•Nan - the goat, was captured at Hampton Roads before the war. and waxed fat 
and inquisitive in the atmosphere of powder smoke. She likew.se developed a 
ikhrg for tobacco ashes even more pronounced than her taste for newspapers On 
coming north after the war she allowed her tastes to be elevated and would eat 
only pages of magazines-and tobacco ashes. During the -"on of July 3d, she 
had a place of refuge in the sick-bay, under the sugeon's operat.ng table. 



THE SHIP S COMPANY AND PRIZES OF WAR 1 25 

Fehrenschield, Edward Baertschigar, Daniel Phelan, Jeremiah 
Mourley, Archibald McCoy, Edward Mason, Owen Kirwan. 

Ordinary Seamen. — William Henry Bayle, Charles Lawrence, 
Joseph Miller, Charles Bernard, Oeorge Farrell, Arthur Edward 
Arnold, Charles Saram, Marshall Bertin Atwell, Carl Erick An- 
derson, Junius Johnson, Joseph Mulhall, Francis Joseph Ham- 
mell, David Bain, Peter Downey, William Buchanan May, John 
Harvey Stocks, James Wallace MacLean, Thomas Henry Murray, 
Ralph Tilghman Fisher, John Thomas Powers, Julius Grant 
Craw, Joseph Foy Chapman, James Willard Ford, Joseph Con- 
stant Gagnon, Otto Helmerichs, James Robert Hanham, Joseph 
Keating, Edward Wilhelm Levan, Peter Le Engle, John Meyers, 
Calvin Seymour Miller, John Manley, Lydick Johannes Johans- 
son, William John Smith, George Bostwick, Joseph Stephen 
Rose, Edward Winther, Charles Martin Henry Olsen, Marius 
Rasmussen, Earle Stuart Dean, David Jamieson, Joseph Ches- 
borough Pretti, William Adam Schwabe, Robert Adams, Konrad 
Haake, William Britton, Wilbert Hayes Elliott, James Sliney, 
Robert Trinlett, William Peter Williams, Patrick Kirwin, George 
Fox, Luther Slate, Walter Leonard Graves, Edward Watson 
Hall, Androas Edward Hernansen, Otto Rudolf, Robert Edward 
Weber, Arthur Boos, James Farrell, John Grant Rotherham, 
Daniel Elighter Stapleton, Edward Francis Maybaum, Charles 
Henry Colburn, August Anderson, Jacob Adolph Loeb, Lindsay 
MacLeish. 

Apprentices, Second Class. — Francis Joseph Kane, Charles 
Frederick Henderson, Eugene Fatton, John Francis Dolan, 
James Edward Powers, Edward Aloysius Fee, Theodore Louis 
Pieper, John Harrison, Richard Carter, Michael Joseph Wilkin- 
son, Charles Augustus Lyman, George Henry O'Donoghue, Fred- 
erick Hoenstel Field, David Frederick Mead, Frank Richard 
Stone, Henry Taylor, Frank Leslie Gransbury, Ernest Eldridge 
Comstock, John Joseph Howe, Henry Llewellyn Bixbee, John 
Dick Rockefeller, Hudson Arthur Steele, Maurice Doherty, 
John Koehler, Austin Wilden Lee, John Capell, Howard Gogus 
Thomas, Arthur Illston Haines, William Henry Heistand, Clar- 
ence Bernard Kyle, John Broadfoot Macfarlane, Edward William 
McGregor, William Garland Allan, Charles Leonard Seifert. 



126 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Firemen, Second Class. — Thomas Dryhurst, William Bowman, 
John Lynch, John Casey, Frank McNulty, Arthur Percy Green, 
Jacob Peter Windness, William Ward, James O' Brine, Edward 
Augustus Donovan, Harry Francis King, John Eberhart, Peter 
Claborn Rushing, Charles Rife, Gustaf Aroid Person, Michael 
Cowles, William Delaney, John Edward Moran, John Stafford, 
John Thompson, Edward Walsh, Charles Herbert Penny, George 
Albert Hewitt, John Mitchell, Charles Anderson, Patrick Flood, 
Patrick Gallivan, William Glynn, Anthony Murphy. 

Shipwrights. — Emanuel Sarsfield, Charles Leishman. 

Bugler. — Wayne Abbott. 

Landsmen. — Alfred Sipe, Charles Lee, Martin Van Buren 
Webber, Joseph Siemele, John Beaghen, Edward Turley, Edward 
\\ 'illiam Ryan, Edward Harvey Hammond, John Hilbert Meehan, 
Nicholas Keppler, James Joseph Crotty, Victor Johnson, Michael 
Kennedy, Jeremiah Donovan, Florence Klinck Rauftle, Frank 
Mogridge. 

Landsman (Jack of Dust). — Henry Burkhardt. 

Coal Passers. — Harry Johannes, William Martin Haggerty, 
William Tilly, Isaac Threwitt, Charles Dexter Cole, Frank 
Wyatt, Charles Smith, John Lynch, Charles Britton, William 
Curran, William Henry Cooke, Timothy Cahill, John Theodore 
Sybrandi, John Hazel Call, James Carr, Charles Henry Williams, 
Louis Patrick P3rown, Frank Price, Michael McCann, John David 
Collins, Anthony Drolett, James Henry Dougherty, William 
Goldsmith Duff, Robert Jones, Daniel Elliott, Charles William 
Williams, Fred Langley, Robert McMullen, James Fox, Patrick 
Sharkey, Adrian Gothus Teel, Mikel Mesment Roach, Henry 
Lewis, Victor Emanuel Roney, Thomas O'Brien, Peter Hourihan, 
Edward Kenney, Fred Tate, William Frank Buchanan, Thomas 
McDonough, Daniel Dempsey, Edward Sheehy, John Springer, 
August See, James Tucker. 

1 laymen. — Thomas Joseph Gray, George Kingvvell. 

('al)in Steward. — John Gibson. 

Cabin Cook. — John Andrew Cutrell. 

Ward-room Steward. — Charles Edward Wilson. 

W.inl-room Cook. — Edward Antonio Dos Santos. 

Steerage Steward. — Massa Tobe. 



THE SHIP S COMPANY AND PRIZES OF WAR 127 

Steerage Cook. — Aiychi Shima. 

Warrant Officer's Steward. — William Preston Moore. 

Warrant Officer's Cook. — James McCul lough. 

Ship's Cook, First Class. — James Joseph Conners. 

Ship's Cooks, Second Class. — Daniel Collins, Herbert William 
Doggrell, Frank White Clark. 

Ship's Cooks, Third Class. — John Thomas Welch, Henry 
William Meitzler. 

Ship's Cooks, Fourth Class. — Maurice O'Connor, Patrick 
Fogarty, James Joseph Hamilton. 

Mess Attendants. — John Richard Elsey, James Spratley, Alex- 
ander Albert King, Edward Everitte Seavey, George Theodore 
Poste, James Alexander Manning, Alfred Cornelius Black, Cor- 
nelius Henry Tatem, Jen Komaten, Naka Shima. 

Marines 

First Sergeant. — Charles Gamborg Andresen. 

Sergeants. — Carl Schneider, Daniel Moriarty Delaney, John 
Joseph Kelly, Fred Hodson, Leon Wesley Mayshaw, James 
Duffy, Frank Sweeney. 

Fifer. — John Onesine Dusett. 

Drummer. — Edwin Milton Thomasson. 

Privates. — Patrick Barry, Robert Emil Bensler, William Clay- 
ton Blackiston, William Oliver Buyer, Michael Brooks, Thomas 
Canfield, Richard Clynes, George Colter, Frank Davis, Mike 
Downey, Michael Downs, Francis Ignatious Duffy, John Edward 
Ely, Albert Gosling, Ethan Nathan Hescock, August Holmberg, 
Denis Looney, Adolph Mitscherling, Daniel O'Brien, Timothy 
O'Brien, George Raby Orr, Edward Frederick Russell, Theodore 
Valentine Sherman, Alvin Thomas Shepard, Francis Sweeney, 
John Daniel Showalter, Michael Butler, Michael Kelly, Benard 
Temple Robinson, Eugene William Marcy, Alfred Lawrence 
Walsh, Gustav Pingel, James Clancy, Patrick Maher, Patrick 
Dunne, Edward Mickle Miles, Jason Sanford Verge, Edgar Poe 
Crouse, Charles Adolph Arians, Charles Rolle, Charles Howard, 
Andrew Gunter, Thomas Hunter Jernigan, Charles Nolan, Ruther- 
ford Hayes Porter, James Julius Ryan, Nelson Jerome Hurd, 



128 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

Joseph Malachi Kelly, Walter Lawrence O'Neal, Joseph Samuel 
King, Thomas Francis Farrington, Robert Grant, Thomas Gilli- 
gan, Patrick Harkins, William Hecker, Frederick Baker Howes, 
James Mahoney, Henry Daniel Miller, Theodore McClenon, 
Frank Martin Pahl, Louis Schmiedt, Carl Ohlson Sievers, John 
William Tutcher, William John Taylor, Joseph Patrick Williams. 

Prizes of War 

The Indiana was interested particularly in the capture of six 
prizes of war : 

No. i. April 22. — The Spanish steamer Buena Ventura, 
sighted by the Indiana and photographs taken. The Indiana 
was within easy gun range and within signal distance of the 
Nashville at the time she made the capture. 

NO. 2. April 25. — The Spanish steamer Panama, captured 
off Havana during the blockade of that port, by the U. S. S. 
Mangrove, assisted by the Indiana. Boatswain Dowling fired a 
6-pounder shot across the steamer's bow, which aided materi- 
ally in inducing her to haul clown her colors and surrender. A 
prize crew was sent aboard from the Indiana in charge of Cadet 
Falconer. 

No. 3. May 5, about 9 a.m. — A Spanish barkentine, the Fras- 
quito, captured by the Montgomery off the north coast of Cuba. 
The Indiana was within easy gun range and signal distance. 

No. 4. May 5, about T.30 p.m. — A Spanish brigantine, the 
Lorenzo, captured by the Montgomery off the north coast of 
Cuba, by order of the flagship. The Indiana was within easy 
signal distance and within easy gun range. 

No. 5. July 3. — The fleet commanded by Admiral Cervera. 
In the destruction of the Maria Teresa, Oquendo, Vizcaya, and 
the torpedo-boat destroyer Pluton this ship claims special credit. 

No. 6. July 4. — The destruction of the Reina Mercedes. The 
Indiana was standing by ready to render any assistance that 
might be needed, and was hit by a Spanish shell from a shore 
battery while doing so. 



the ship's company and prizes of war 1 29 

The War Volunteers 

Several volunteer officers were assigned to the Indiana at vari- 
ous times during the war, most of them being in the engineer 
department. 

During the time of the Santiago campaign, including the days 
of the bombardment and the battle with Cervera's fleet, some 
sixty members of the Illinois Naval Militia, who had entered 
the navy when war began, served on board the Indiana, with 
credit to themselves and the State organization from which they 
came. After the fleet returned to New York, the latter part of 
August, they were transferred to the receiving ship Vermont at 
the New York Navy Yard, and then sent home with other men of 
the Illinois Naval Militia, who had done like service on other 
ships, to be honorably discharged. 

There were also on board the Indiana about one hundred one- 
year men, or volunteers for the war, whose services were retained 
some time after the Illinois men were sent home, the Navy 
Department having decided that their services could not be dis- 
pensed with before the treaty of peace was officially ratified. 

The Relief Boats' Crews 

With Lieutenant Decker was Coxswain Carl O. Magnusson and 
the following boat's crew : L. Hansen, C. Johnson, Bergreen, 
D. B. Starr, W. H. Bayle, A. Sipe, Hanham, Haake, Lindsey, 
Wilkinson, Donaghue, D. F. Mead, F. Johnson, C. Bernard. 

Ensign Olmsted was in charge of the relief boat, with Coxs- 
wain Philip Sheridan and the following crew : Maybaum, Herlitz, 
Jones, Halvorsen, Burns, J. Farrell, Forsborn, Rodd, G. Farrell. 
9 



CHAPTER IX 

THE INTERNAL MECHANISM 

Miscellaneous Information about the Indiana, showing the Varied Indus- 
tries carried on on Board a Battleship, the Guns and the Ammunition, 
and Other Items of Information. 

A modern battleship of the Indiana type is a town in itself. 
Almost all branches of industry are represented. The following 
list of the rates held by the men and the number of each rate 
on board the Indiana will give to the civilian some idea of the 
varied knowledge required to operate such a fighting machine. 

U. S. S. Indiana, Complement on War Footing 

Established by Order, April 7, 1898 

seaman branch 

Chief Master-at-Arms 1 

Master-at-Arms, First Class 1 

" " " Second " ' 1 

" " " Third " 1 

Chief Boatswain's Mate 1 

Boatswain's Mates, First Class 4 

Second " 4 

Coxswains 12 

Chief Gunner's Mate 1 

Gunner's Mates, First Class 8 

" Second " 8 

" Third " 8 

Chief Quartermaster 1 

Quartermaster, First Class 1 



THE INTERNAL MECHANISM 131 

Quartermaster, Second Class i 

Quartermasters, Third " 2 

Seamen 101 

Ordinary Seamen 40 

Apprentices 46 

Landsmen 34 

Total 276 



ARTIFICER BRANCH 

Chief Carpenter's Mate 1 

Carpenter's Mate, First Class 1 

" Third " 1 

Shipwrights 2 

Blacksmith 1 

Sailmaker's Mate 1 

Plumber and Fitter 1 

Painters 2 

Total 10 



ENGINE-ROOM FORCE 

Chief Machinists 5 

Machinists, First Class 5 

Boilermaker 1 

Blacksmith 1 

Coppersmith 1 

Water Tenders 6 

Machinists, Second Class 5 

Oilers 8 

Firemen, First Class 26 

" Second " 14 

Coal Passers 51 

Total 123 



132 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



SPECIAL BRANCH 



Hospital Steward . . . 

Yeoman, Equipment 
Commissary- 
Engineers' ... 
Commanding Officer 

Pay 

First Class 
Second " . . 

Buglers, or Apprentices for 

Hospital Apprentices 



Total 



MESSMAN BRANCH 

Cabin Steward 

" Cook 

Mess Attendant 

Ward-room Steward 

Cook 

Mess Attendants 8 

Steerage Steward 

Cook 

Mess Attendants 3 

Warrant Officers' Steward 

Cook 

Ship's Cooks, First Class 

" Second " 3 

Third " 2 

Fourth " 3 

Total 29 

Total Complement of Crew 449 

Marine Guard 75 



5-4 





NORDENFELDT MACHINE GUN 



Taken from military top of Admiral Cervera's flagship by 
Chief Gunner's Mate Aveson 



*'.■ : :- 



^fe^ff^ 



RIFLE BARREL 
From wreck of Spanish warship 




THE MAIL ORDERLY 



Hvfta 



..J 



BACKBOARD 
From small boat belonging to the Pluton 




BOAT ANCHOR 
From Spanish flagship Maria Teresa 






w 



SPANISH GOLD COINS ON BASE 
OF MELTED SILVER 
From the Maria Teresa 



THE INTERNAL MECHANISM 1 35 

On war basis: 524 men, 36 officers. Divided as follows: On 
deck, seaman's branch, 276 men; engine-room force, 123 men, 
6 officers; special branch, n men; artificer branch, 10 men; 
messman branch, 30 men; marine guard, 75 men, 2 officers. 

Battery 

Main Battery. — Four 13-inch, Mark I, hydraulic mount B. L. 
rifles, mounted in pairs, in two turrets, one forward, one aft. 
Armor-piercing shells weigh 1,100 pounds. Full charges of 
powder weigh 550 pounds. 

Eight 8-inch, Mark IV, spring return mount B. L. rifles, 
mounted in pairs in turrets, two forward, two aft. Armor- 
piercing shells weigh 250 pounds. Full powder charges weigh 
125 pounds. 

Four 6-inch rapid-firing, spring return B. L. rifles, mounted on 
pedestal mounts, in barbettes, two on starboard side and two on 
port side, amidships. Shells weigh 100 pounds and powder 
charges (smokeless powder) 26 to 28 pounds each. (These guns 
were installed in the Indiana in November, 1898, and were the 
first guns on board to use smokeless powder exclusively. Smoke- 
less powder was used to a limited extent in the old-style 6-inch 
guns, of which these take the place, during some actions of the 
war. ) 

Secondary Battery. — Twenty 6-pounder Hotchkiss rapid-fire 
rifles, mounted on cage and rail mounts. 

Six 1 -pounder Hotchkiss rapid-fire rifles, heavy : two in fight- 
ing top ; four (boat pieces) mounted on top of 8-inch turrets. 

One i-pounder Maxim-Nordenfeldt automatic gun, mounted on 
after bridge rail. 

Four Whitehead torpedo-tubes and six torpedoes. 

Total number of guns of all calibres, 43. Total weight of 
ammunition carried on board, about 425 tons. 

Weight of Guns 

Each 13-inch breech-loading rifle, about 61 tons, exclusive of 
mount, etc. ; each 8-inch breech-loading rifle, about 13 tons, 
exclusive of mount, etc. ; each 6-inch rapid-fire breech-loading 



I36 THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 

rifle, about 2^4 tons, exclusive of mount, etc. ; each 6-pounder 
rapid-fire breech-loading rifle, about 792 pounds; each i-pound- 
er rapid-fire breech-loading rifle, about 297 to 497 pounds, in- 
cluding mounts. 

Total weight of metal that can be thrown at one discharge, 
main and secondary batteries, 7,200 pounds. 

Armor 

(Nickel steel.) Length of special armor belt at water-line, 
150 feet; thickness of belt, thickest part, 18 inches; depth of 
belt, 7 feet 6 inches; armor of 13-inch turrets, 15 inches; 
armor of 8-inch turrets, 6 inches ; armor around barbettes and 
6-inch batter)', 5 inches. Other armor of ship, varying from 
5 to 14 inches. 

Engines 

Horse-power, two engines, 10,000; main boilers, 4; auxiliary 
boilers, 2 ; electric dynamos, 3. Total number of engines of 
all sorts on Ixxird the Indiana, 86. As follows: 2 main propel- 
ling engines; 2 main air pumps; 2 main circulating pumps; 
2 auxiliary air and circulating pumps ; 2 main reversing engines ; 
2 main turning engines; 1 workshop engine; 6 evaporator and 
distilling pumps: 1 oil pump; 2 feed, fire, and bilge pumps; 
2 fire and bilge pumps; 2 water-service pumps; 4 main feed 
pumps for main boilers ; 4 auxiliary feed pumps for main boilers ; 
2 main feed pumps for auxiliary boilers ; 2 auxiliary feed pumps 
for auxiliary boilers; 10 forced-draft blowers; 2 ventilating 
blowers for engine-room ; 4 ventilating blowers for ship; 4 ash- 
hoisting engines; 3 dynamo engines; 1 steering engine; 2 
13-inch turret engines; 4 8-inch turret engines; 1 ice machine; 
1 windlass and capstan engine; 6 winches (2 electric); 2 
hydraulic pumps; 2 accumulators ; 2 air compressors; 1 pump 
for waste-water tank ; 2 steam cutter propelling engines ; 2 steam 
cutter feed pumps. 

Ship's bunkers will take about 1,600 tons of coal. The crew 
can coal ship at the rate of 700 tons a day under favorable con- 
ditions. 



THE INTERNAL MECHANISM I37 

Bower anchors weigh 14,120 and 15,000 pounds each. Bower 
chains are 120 fathoms long. 

Length of ship on water-line, 248 feet ; extreme breadth, 69 
feet 3 inches j normal displacement, 10,200 tons; normal 
draught, 24 feet; draught with full stores and coal supply, 26 
feet 4 inches; total displacement, all stores, etc., aboard, 
1 1,403 tons. 



CHAPTER X 



NEWSPAPER NOTICES 



Press Mention of the Indiana and Matters concerning the Ship. Some 
Words in Appreciation of Attention Received. 

From the time the battleship Indiana received its name the 
people of the State of Indiana have taken a lively and continual 
interest in the ship and her doings. This has been shown in the 
presentation of the elegant and valuable silver service and library 
by the citizens of the State, and by the attention given the ship 
by the newspapers of the State. The Indianapolis News has 
been conspicuous in this respect, but by no means the only 
one to devote liberal space from time to time to the ship's 
affairs. Lieutenant W. H. Elliott, manager of the New Castle 
Courier, served during the war as a volunteer naval officer, and 
he saw to it that his paper always kept its readers informed as 
to the doings of the State's namesake in the Navy. The officers 
and men of the United States ship Indiana appreciate the atten- 
tion given them in this way, and anything concerning the State 
of Indiana interests them. 

As a sample of the newspaper notices referred to, the follow- 
ing from the Indianapolis News of October 4, 1898, are repro- 
duced into this book. The first is an editorial notice, the second 
is a portion of an article written by an Indiana man who visited 
the ship after she came to New York at the close of the war. 

Indiana to the Front 

' ' Yesterday we presented the official report of the commander 
of the Resolute, which shows that the Indiana was the first to 
receive the fire of the Spanish fleet as each of the boats came out 
of the harbor, and that it was her own effective fire that first 



NEWSPAPER NOTICES 1 39 

reached the Maria Teresa and the Vizcaya, while it was one of 
her shells that 'did' for the torpedo-boat Furor; and all the 
while her secondary battery was playing havoc. . . . 

" In short, the vastly important part that our namesake bore in 
this great battle was something to cause additional pride. A 
supplemental report of this kind from a correspondent of the 
News is given elsewhere in to-day's issue — in a story of a vjsit 
to the Indiana as she lies in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Her cap- 
tain is a fighter, not a talker, and a modest man withal. So the 
glory which has come to the Oregon and the Brooklyn, while it 
may not be diminished, can have for companionship the glory 
which the Indiana won in the same battle. Thus the goodly 
State seems to be forging ahead. 

" The noted sculptor, George Grey Barnard, whose great work 
is so known and recognized on both sides of the sea that he has 
been called the greatest of living sculptors, is identified with 
Indiana in a way, as is told in the very interesting account of 
the home of his parents at Madison. When it comes to good 
things, from authors and artists to battleships, Indiana seems to 
be at the front and up and doing." 



Another Distinction 

" New York, October i. — From the first it has been apparent 
that the' battleship Indiana is a credit and an honor to the State 
whose name she bears. In structure, mechanical, and technical 
points she is not surpassed by any vessel in the service. The 
naval engagements of the recent war have been limited in num- 
ber, but the Indiana has been conspicuous in the only important 
actions in this hemisphere — the bombardment of San Juan and 
the destruction of Cervera's fleet. Captain Taylor has proved 
himself a commander of distinction and bravery, and the men 
behind the Indiana's guns have demonstrated their daring and 
efficiency. 

"The Indiana is now in the famous dry dock No. 3 in the 
Brooklyn Navy Yard, the only dry dock in this country large 
enough to hold securely this giant battleship. Here thousands 
visit the marine fighter every day. It is down in the records at 
Washington that the Indiana did work unexcelled by any other 
ship in action. 

' ; Gradually there is being established the magnificent record 
of one of the finest battleships and the bravest and most pro- 
ficient set of officers and seamen in the world. Indiana has 
reason to be proud of them. This record, for instance, shows 
officially that the Indiana fired 1,876 shots during the hour and 



THE BATTLESHIP INDIANA 



flee^f^^bS m^Tu** time Sera's 
the Maria Teresa, Oquendo V III ? p,*" 8 ^ SUnk ° r beacl ^d 

" For his bravery and abUitVfnT' ?1Ut ° n ' and Furor - 
been advanced fiv/num^ in rant ^v" Captam Tay,or has 
the same conduct has ecdve 1 th? ' d h ' S e ? ecat ™ officer for 
son, after Genera's desTruc\7on nl ? TT 1 ' Admiral Samp- 
entrance to the Santiago HaS tdteet ^T* t0 ^ ^ 
2S- —p- attei pting 5 ^pT ^TSp^ 

be^rS tnfnXS^cS * °? ^ ^ that * 
with a detail to look after the prison^ T^ *, SU ^° n ash ° re 
burning hulk of the Marin rJ" lhey ,anded ne ar the 

t.cally beneath it. Her? I ' fi '^^'P' is P r ^- 
ministered to the dying andwounXn ^ ° fficers and sailor s 
gerous circumstances tha at «nder more trying and dan- 
and a half of battle The tanZTlT ° f ? e precedin S ho «r 
-ith her guns loaded but a d T^ MaHa Teresa 

mg hulk exploded these elm es ™f , ^^ ° f the Durn " 
nition on deck as well^^S^ f^^ the faed ammu " 
a constant fusillade about the Indian •" ma ^ Zines ' Jt rained 
never wavered. Indiana s relief party, but they 

^"^^^^C^^? the / ndiana is fenced 
guns they went with a cheer iJ } ?u ^^ the men t0 the 
muttered eagernes , but wfth at, ^^ satisfacti °n and 
and sooty with the' dir o fettle 2if ™7 ¥ ^ Grin * 
hausted after the action thJu ■ ', I naked ' P^piring, ex- 
that another ^^^^%£** l y th , e Captained 
'When that ship showed the A™L hon * 0n ', P erha P* the Pelayo. 
India na, < we were he sorest ta 2 " t *' "** a Jackie on dle 
excepting the beaten bS^nlh^SptisS SckL' °' "* eVe " 

" ^JS^^^^^ ^I* name, and 

men and their gallant Cn i citizens of the State. The 

citizens. g Capta ' n deserve well of the State and the 

a %:S"t":^:^^ x esented in the Navy * 

gallantry and bravery than C»JJ °, ffic , ers and ^rew of greater 
battleship Indiana!" ! " laylor ' his men > a " d the 




• = 



S°i5 



■3 S 5 



NEWSPAPER NOTICES I43 



As a Spanish Officer Saw It 

As shedding a little light on the events of July 3d, the follow- 
ing extract from one of the publications of the Naval Intelli- 
gence Office, recently issued, is reprinted here. The document 
tells the story of the battles and capitulation of Santiago, ending 
with a diary of a Spanish naval officer (Lieutenant Muller), which 
tells the story vividly from his standpoint. 

" At six o'clock in the evening of [July 3d] Miguel Lopez, the 
pilot of the Maria Teresa, Cervera's flagship, arrived and told of 
the catastrophe. Then Lieutenant Muller, being bent on getting 
all the news for his diary, sought out Lopez and got him to tell 
his story. This is the way Lieutenant Muller tells it : 

" ' Miguel Lopez, who is cool-headed and daring on land as 
well as on sea, said to me about as follows : " I was in the for- 
ward tower by the side of Admiral Cervera, who was as calm as 
though he had been at anchor, in his own cabin, and was observ- 
ing the channel and the hostile ships and only said these words : 
' Pilot, when can we shift the helm ? ' He had reference to 
turning to starboard, which could only be done after we had 
passed Diamante Bank. After a few seconds he said: 'Pilot, 
advise me when we can shift the helm.' ' I will advise you, 
Admiral,' I answered. 

" ' " A few moments later I said : ' Admiral, the helm may be 
shifted now.' 

"'"In a moment the Admiral, without shouting, without 
becoming excited, as calm as usual, said, ' To starboard ! ' and 
the next minute, ' Fire ! ' 

'" "At the same moment simultaneously the two guns of the 
turret and those of the port battery fired on a ship which seemed 
to me to be the Indiana. 

" ' " I thought the ship was sinking. I cannot tell you, Don 
lose, all that passed. By this time there were already many 
dead and wounded in the battery, because they had been firing 
on us for some time, and I believe that in spite of the water that 
was in the ship she was already on fire then. The Admiral said 
to me, ' Good-by, pilot; go now, and be sure to let them pay 
you, because you have earned it well,' and he continued to give 
orders." ' " 



144 the battleship indiana 

From "The Illustrated London News" 
{October 15, 1898) 

" While there was but one life lost on the side of the United 
States in the naval battle with Cervera's fleet off Santiago de 
Cuba, the battleships have many scars to indicate how hot 
must have been the cannonading by the Spaniards. One of the 
most singular freaks of a mortar-shell was that which burst in 
the ward-room passage of the battleship Indiana. A fragment 
from this shell, five and one-half inches long, weighing about 
five pounds, struck the massive punch bowl belonging to the 
solid silver service which Messrs. Tiffany & Company of New 
York made for the vessel, and which was presented to it by the 
people of the State of Indiana in whose honor it was named. 
The bowl received the blow on the body, where the seal of the 
State forms the central portion of a rich decoration. The 
seal is still there, but not as the artist designed it; for it now 
forms a part of a large, irregular indentation, which, though 
destroying the symmetry of the beautiful bowl, does not impair 
its usefulness. As a memento of the Indiana's participation in 
the battle, the injury to the bowl has a thousand times enhanced 
its value, and that the honorable distinction it gives to it may 
be perpetuated, the Messrs. Tiffany are having the scar properly 
inscribed, and the piece of shell mounted upon the bowl in such 
a way that it may be lifted off like a cover, and the bowl used 
when desired. Upon the inside of the bowl, over the bulged-in 
part, will be engraved or etched the following inscription : 
' Made by a fragment of a mortar-shell fired from the Socapa 
Battery, Santiago de Cuba, which burst in the ward-room passage 
of the l'. S. battleship Indiana, midnight, July 4, 1898.' 

" This punch bowl is one of the largest and richest pieces 
of the Indiana's silver service. It stands eleven inches high, 
measures nineteen and one-half inches across the top, and has a 
capacity of four gallons. It is lined with gold, and the decora- 
tions, which are all in repousse work, include the State seal of 
Indiana, the famous soldiers' and sailors' monument in the city 
of Indianapolis, and the principal flora and trees of the State, 
all interwoven into a highly artistic and symbolic design. The 
entire silver service of the battleship Indiana consists of about 
forty pieces, including candelabra, tea set, waiter, etc., all of 
sterling si her. It weighs about two hundred pounds, and is by 
far the richest gift of this character ever presented to a battle- 
ship or cruiser. The fund for the purchase and presentation of 
this service was conducted under the auspices of the Indianapolis 
's, one of the most progressive newspapers in the United 
States." 



NEWSPAPER NOTICES 



145 



Gloucester and Indian a. vs. the Spanish Torpedo-boat 
Destroyers 

Lieutenant-Commander Richard Wainwright, who commanded 
the converted yacht Gloucester during the war, gives some details 
of the part taken by that vessel as she fought close by the Indiana 
in the battle with Cervera's fleet on July 3d, in a volume in the 
Library of Universal History dealing with the Spanish-American 
War. The following extracts are reprinted here, as relating to 
the Indiana's part in that action : 

" The fleet opened fire at once on the Maria Teresa. We were 
heading out and commenced firing with our after guns. Our 
helm was put hard a-port, so that we turned toward the Indiana 
and in the direction taken by the enemy, and was kept a-port 
until we were heading at right angles to their column. 

" The enemy soon developed their tactics, such as they were. 
They evidently expected to take advantage of their high speed 
and escape past the western end of our fleet before we could 
destroy them. 

"We of the Gloucester closed in toward the enemy, firing 
such guns as we could bring to bear. We were near the Indiana 
and anxiously looking for the destroyers. 

" As soon as the Pluton and Furor made their appearance our 
duty was plain — we must prevent them from attacking one of our 
battleships. We started ahead at full spead and gradually 
closed in on them, firing as rapidly as possible. About this 
time we made out a signal from the Indiana to read : 

"'Gunboats close in.' 

" I have since heard that Captain Taylor intended to signal 
' Torpedo boats coming out.' * To close in on the torpedo boats 
required us to cross the Indiana's line of fire, and as she was 
pouring in shell from her secondary battery, we were glad to feel 
secure that she would stop as we crossed her line." 



* The signal made by the Indiana was, about 9.45 a.m. : " Enemy's 
torpedo-boats escaping or coming out to westward." 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




